Mendes: Thatcher got off lightly

Pedro Mendes insists he has forgiven Ben Thatcher for the defender's infamous elbow.

Pedro Mendes insists he has forgiven Ben Thatcher for the defender's infamous elbow, even if he believes Manchester City should have imposed a tougher punishment on their player.

The Portsmouth midfielder was left unconscious following Thatcher's 'challenge' at The City of Manchester Stadium last week, though he has since returned to training

Mendes admits the episode had him fearing the worst at first, but claims the unsavoury incident has been forgotten.

"It has been a bad time for me because I went so far as to think the worst, but fortunately things have come along well and now I dream of playing again as quickly as possible," said Mendes.

"It is the most serious thing that has happened to me since I came to English football. I hope that it does not repeat itself, but I insist everything is forgotten."

Stuart Pearce censured the Welshman by handing the fiery competitor a six-match ban but, despite his forgiveness, former Tottenham star Mendes believes Thatcher could have been taught a sterner lesson by his club.

"Manchester City have banned Thatcher for six games and that is not enough for me," added Mendes.

"But if that is how they see the incident then it is the way it will be, and my opinion does not change anything.

"I already said that I was ready to give my version of events if I was asked, but nothing will happen.

"I believe Thatcher will be regretting what he did - if this lesson has been learnt then we have gained something for football."