Source: Team_Talk
Mancini speaks up for 'loyal' De Jong
Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has called on referees to remain objective towards Holland midfielder Nigel de Jong.[LNB] The 25-year-old has faced criticism after his reckless tackle during Sunday's Premier League match at Eastlands left Newcastle forward Hatem Ben Arfa with a broken leg.[LNB]De Jong was subsequently dropped from Bert van Marwijk's Holland squad for the Euro 2012 qualifiers against Moldova and Sweden.[LNB]"I am very saddened for Ben Arfa - he is an extraordinary player," said Mancini in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport.[LNB]"I hope he returns to play as soon as possible."[LNB]He added: "De Jong is forceful but also loyal.[LNB]"He goes hard but not with the intention of hurting anyone.[LNB]"Sunday's episode was just an incident of the game.[LNB]"The referee saw it and he didn't even call a foul. I don't wish to enter into the decision made by the Dutch coach.[LNB]"I hope the referees will continue to evaluate De Jong objectively."[LNB]
