Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure has maintained that he did not intentionally consume any alcohol after receiving an 18-month ban for drink driving.
Earlier this month, it was revealed that the Ivorian failed a breathalyser test while driving through Dagenham but he has protested his innocence ever since, claiming that he does not drink because of his religion.
However, Toure opted against appealing the charge and after a hearing in court, he has stressed that he did not deliberately drink any alcohol prior to driving.
In a statement, the 33-year-old said: "Over the last two weeks there has been some confusion as to why I was charged with drink driving, as it is well known that I am a Muslim and do not drink.
"I have always refused alcohol. Anyone who knows me or follows football will have seen me refuse champagne for Man of the Match performances because of my commitment to my religion.
"The matter has now been resolved in court on Monday. As I was above the permitted limit when tested on the night, I decided not to challenge the charge. However, it was important to me that I told the court that I had not intentionally consumed alcohol. The judge in his sentencing remarks accepted that I had not been intentionally drinking.
"Drink driving is a serious crime and even though I was not intentionally consuming alcohol I accept the ban and fine and I would like to apologise for this situation. I would also like to thank my family, the management and staff at Manchester City, my legal team and the fans for the support they have given me during this difficult time."
Toure has made a total of five appearances for City this season.
Darren Plant
