Mancini ready to welcome back Tevez

Roberto Mancini

Published: 7:35pm, 22nd February 2012
Updated: 8:47am, 23rd February 2012

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini has said he had "no problem" with Carlos Tevez and the striker could be considered for selection in "two or three weeks".

Tevez said in a statement released by City on Tuesday night that he was "sincerely and unreservedly" sorry for his actions in taking an unauthorised three-month leave of absence from the club. The Argentinian also withdrew his appeal against a fine of six weeks' wages.

After a 4-0 defeat of Porto put City into the last 16 of the Europa League, Mancini said Tevez would be available once he deems him match fit. The Italian told ESPN: "One week after Munich I called him to my house and said, 'Carlos, apologise to everyone and it's finished'. I have no problem. I think he needs two to three weeks to train, then some games."

Tevez has not played for City since he was accused of refusing to warm up during the Champions League defeat at Bayern Munich on September 27.

Mancini, at the time, said Tevez was "finished" at the club as a result and the dispute escalated when the player then flew to Argentina without permission on November 7.

On the contest, Mancini continued: "We played a good game. Maybe 4-0 was too much but it was important we went into the second stage.

"Porto had lots of possession and it's not easy to play against them."

The Italian was pleased to see David Pizarro come on and score his first goal for the club.

Mancini continued: "I know him very well, he was with me at Inter. He came on for 20 minutes, played very well and scored a goal. His experience can be very important for us."

On their future prospects in the competition, Mancini added: "We want to get to the final. It will be difficult but for this reason I will play the best team, although we can make some changes every game."