Bayern Munich Football Club News

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• Founded:1900
• Manager:Jupp Heynckes

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Podolski pays for slapping

03 Apr 2009 - 16:15:24

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Germany striker Lukas Podolski has made a donation of 5,000 euros to charity for his on-field spat with national team captain Michael Ballack during the 2-0 win over Wales.

Bayern Munich ace Podolski slapped Ballack in the face during the Millennium Stadium clash, but has apologised for his actions and made a financial payment to charity.

German Football Association president Dr Theo Zwanziger said: "For all the team's striving for success, it remains their responsibility to be ambassadors of tolerance, fairness and non-violence.

"Such scenes give a bad impression of the team and particularly of the individual players.

"For youngsters, players like Lukas Podolski in particular are idols who they want to emulate.

"A professional must act as a role model and has a responsibility to society which they have got to be aware of. I expect that of every individual in every game.

"This is a good and the right gesture given his unacceptable behaviour."