Manchester, Dec 13: Though Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure did not admit that he "intentionally consumed alcohol", the Ivorian footballer has pleaded guilty to drink-driving, it was reported on Tuesday, December 13.

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The 33-year-old was "above the permitted limit", and did not challenge the charge. He was fined 54,000 pounds (around $68,707), a means-tested fine, and banned from driving for 18 months by Barkingside magistrate.

"It is well known that I am a Muslim and do not drink. I have always refused alcohol," Toure was quoted as saying by BBC.

In his statement, Toure added: "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."

The former Ivory Coast international was recalled to the Manchester City squad earlier this month after apologising for "misunderstandings" relating to comments made by his agent Dimitri Seluk on club head coach Pep Guardiola.

IANS