Bellamy explains fan confrontation

Manchester City striker Craig Bellamy explained today why the Football Association were right to spare him any charges over his altercation with a supporter during last month’s Barclays Premier League derby at Old Trafford.

Bellamy was concerned about the repercussions of widespread criticism of his behaviour in a match City lost 4-3 – but he was subsequently heartened the FA chose only to warn him about his conduct.

The 30-year-old Wales captain told BBC Radio 5 live: “The simple facts are that he shouldn’t have been on the pitch – and I shouldn’t have gone over to him.”

But recalling the events of a match in which he scored twice, Bellamy clarified: “I didn’t punch him, didn’t slap him, didn’t backhand him.

“I’ve gone over, told him to get off the pitch. I didn’t quite say it like that – but he got the message.

“He shoved his head towards me – and the FA have seen this; everyone has seen this.”

The fan in question was fined £305 and banned from all football matches for three years.

Bellamy added: “Certain papers tried to make it look like I have just attacked some fan.

“I’ve shoved his head out of my direction, clear as that. The FA have seen that, that’s why I didn’t get a ban.”