The men who kidnapped Carlos Tevez's father earlier this week said that they hope the Argentine striker can forgive their actions.

Segundo Tevez was released after eight hours once the Juventus forward reportedly paid a 40,000 peso (£3,000) ransom.

According to The Mirror, Tevez Sr told the police that the gang said: "Carlos is our idol. He's the greatest there is. We don't want to hurt him. Why would we?

"The problem is we've got children and we need the money. We haven't got any alternative. We hope he forgives us."

The family's lawyer confirmed that Tevez's father was "in good shape" following his release.