Tevez "I couldn't miss this"

Carlos Tevez reported for Manchester City's celebration march to Eastlands on Monday night insisting there was never a thought he might miss it.

It had been suggested instead of climbing aboard the bus taking the Blues from the centre of Manchester to their Eastlands home to parade the FA Cup, Tevez would be on a flight back to Argentina. Instead, the 26-year-old was with his team-mates to mark the end of City's 35-year wait for a trophy.

"In my mind, there was never a question as to whether I would be there," said Tevez. "It is a great day for Sheikh Mansour, who has given so much to the club, and also the fans, who have waiting so long and so patiently as well as the players who have given their all to make this possible.

"No-one had to persuade me to be here. I simply wouldn't have missed this event."

The South American was one of the main figures to take the fans' acclaim as they lined the route in their thousands before a spectacular party at Eastlands.

Tevez did more than anyone to ensure the Blues' campaign ended on a high note, with an automatic place in next season's Champions League group phase now assured following Sunday's win at Bolton.