Manchester City delete tweet praising Martin Demichelis before red card

Manchester City reportedly moved swiftly to delete a tweet praising defender Martin Demichelis, who was sent off during last night's Champions League defeat to Barcelona.

The 33-year-old was given a straight red card after bringing down Lionel Messi, who netted from the spot during his side's 2-0 win at the Etihad Stadium.

Before the sending-off, City's official Twitter page wrote: "Demichelis has been a rock at the heart of the City defence. The Argentine is thwarting everything Barca throw at him so far!"

According to 101greatgoals.com, City quickly deleted their message to 1.52 million followers as Demichelis was shown red shortly after their praise.

City will try to overturn their deficit at Camp Nou for the second leg of their round-of-16 tie on March 12.