Sven: Petrov appeal too risky February 29 2008
Manchester City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has revealed he decided not to appeal against Martin Petrov's red card because of what happened to Jeremie Aliadiere.
Petrov will serve a three-match suspension, starting with Saturday's Premier League home match against Wigan, after kicking out at Leon Osman during Monday's defeat to Everton.
Although Eriksson claimed the Bulgarian had been harshly treated, he has let the matter rest.
That is because Middlesbrough striker Aliadiere's ban was increased from three matches to four after he slapped Liverpool's Javier Mascherano.
Eriksson said: "It is probably better not to appeal as that was a strange decision.
"If you make a bad tackle and injure someone then that is much more dangerous but perhaps the FA want to give examples to young people.
"They don't want you to put your hand in the face of another player or kick out, even if it is a small kick.
"I can understand that as we are models for young people, boys and girls.
"If they see players getting away with it, they might use those things, so it is up to us not to do it in the future."
Eriksson will also be without defender Micah Richards against Wigan as he is recovering from a knee operation.
The City boss is expecting a phone call before the game from Thaksin Shinawatra even though the club's owner has returned to Thailand, where he faces corruption charges.
The Swede's side need a boost as well against Wigan at Eastlands after picking up only seven points from a possible 21 in their bid for Europe.
Eriksson said: "I am not worried at all about Thaksin losing focus now he is back in Thailand.
"He is very enthusiastic and very interested in the club. He phones every week - and two hours before games.
"He wants to know the line-up and I give it to him. He always asks questions and that is nice."
Eriksson is anticipating a tough game against Wigan, who could be dragged into a relegation scrap, and added: "They are fighting for their lives and will keep it very tight."