Share

Man City sorry for coin attack

Manchester - Manchester City have apologised to Rio Ferdinand after the Manchester United defender was struck by a coin as he celebrated his side's 3-2 win in Sunday's Manchester derby.

The English centre-back was left with blood pouring from his face after being hit by a missile apparently thrown from the crowd in the aftermath of Robin van Persie's injury-time winner for United at the Etihad Stadium.

Greater Manchester Police have launched an investigation into the incident, while City expressed regret to Ferdinand.

"We apologise to Rio," said a spokesperson from the club.

"We condemn the actions of the individual concerned. We are reviewing the CCTV with the police and our normal security.

"We will support the police with any investigation and hopefully identify the person as soon as possible."

Ferdinand himself made light of what had happened, writing on Twitter: "what a result,3points! Sweet! Whoever threw that coin,what a shot! Can't believe it was a copper 2p....could have at least been a 1 coin!"

City manager Roberto Mancini claimed not to have witnessed the incident, but he condemned it nonetheless.

"I didn't see, so I don't know what happened," said the Italian.

"We have fantastic support but we can't do what that person did, because it's not good."

A fan wearing City colours also had to be restrained by home goalkeeper Joe Hart after walking onto the pitch and making his way towards Ferdinand after Van Persie's goal.

City had not lost a home game in the English Premier League for two years and their defeat saw United establish a six-point lead at the top of the table.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2243 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE