TEVEZ DOES A "Rooney"

Carlos Tevez has withdrawn his transfer request and expressed his 'absolute commitment' to Manchester City following clear-the-air talks.
The Argentine's future has been the subject of intense speculation over the past week after he announced his intention to secure a move elsewhere.

City immediately turned down his request but it appeared that Tevez's mind was made up after outlining the reasons for his decision.

The 26-year-old striker declared that his relationship with 'certain executives and individuals' had broken down beyond repair and he was angered by suggestions from City that he had been influenced by his long-term adviser Kia Joorabchian.

The saga looked set to drag on, with City adamant that they would not sell their star player in the January transfer window when he still had three-and-a-half years remaining on his contract.

Discussions have since taken place in an effort to resolve the matter and City have released a statement on their official website to verify that Tevez is now happy to stay.

"Manchester City can confirm to its fans that 'clear the air' talks have been held with Carlos Tevez," read the statement.

"During the meeting Carlos expressed his absolute commitment to the club and formally withdrew his transfer request.

"Carlos' contract remains unchanged and both Carlos and the Football Club are keen to focus on the opportunities that lie ahead."

Manager Roberto Mancini also spoke of his delight at the news Tevez would definitely be remaining at Eastlands.

"Carlos is a world-class player whose contribution since he joined the club has been invaluable," said Mancini.

"I am pleased that we are now able to focus on pure football matters and to be able to look forward to Carlos continuing to play a significant role in the club's progress."

Tevez has produced a series of stunning performances since controversially joining City from fierce rivals Manchester United in the summer of 2009, scoring 39 goals in 60 appearances.

Mancini had indicated that he would keep selecting Tevez despite the uncertainty, although there had been reports that he might be stripped of the captain's armband for the Premier League game against Everton on Monday night.

The match is on despite the recent heavy snow and Tevez will hope to fire City to a victory that would put them top of the table at Christmas.