Manchester City Football Club News

• Nickname:Sky Blues
• Founded:1887
• Manager:Roberto Mancini

• Ground:City of Manchester Stadium
• Capacity:48,000

Mancini defends under-fire de Jong

05 Oct 2010 - 13:15:33

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Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini has leapt to the defence of Nigel de Jong after the combative midfielder was dropped from the Netherlands squad.

De Jong was axed by Dutch coach Bert van Marwijk after his tackle on Hatem Ben Arfa left the Newcastle United winger with a broken leg following City's 2-1 Premier League victory at Eastlands on Sunday.

The 25-year-old's conduct was already under scrutiny following his X-rated tackle on Spain's Xabi Alonso during the World Cup final.

He was originally called up by van Marwijk ahead of the Euro 2012 qualifiers with Moldova and Sweden but was told on his arrival in the Netherlands that he was no longer required.

Van Marwijk was unhappy with the tackle which went unpunished by the referee, but Mancini has defended his midfielder after claiming he is not a dirty player.

He told the club's official website: "I don't want to comment about Nigel not being called up by his national team as it is a matter for the Dutch Federation.

"However, as his club manager I wish to say that whilst he is naturally competitive, Nigel is first and foremost a great player as well as being honest and loyal and I support him wholeheartedly.

"I also want to take this opportunity to wish Ben Arfa, who I rate very highly, a speedy recovery and I hope to see him back in action soon."