Carlos Tevez made a low-profile comeback for Manchester City on Tuesday afternoon with an appearance for the reserves against Preston.
Striker plays 45 minutes for reserves
Carlos Tevez made a low-profile comeback for Manchester City on Tuesday afternoon with an appearance for the reserves against Preston.
Tevez flew into England last week after spending three months in Argentina without permission, paving the way for his return by issuing a full apology to the club.
Manager Roberto Mancini accepted the apology and stated that he would consider the striker again once he had regained fitness.
Tevez has now taken his first steps towards getting back in the first XI by playing 45 minutes for the second string in a behind-closed-doors game at City's Carrington training ground.
The 28-year-old was substituted at half-time, replaced by youngster Jordi Hiwula.
Fall from grace
The game was originally scheduled for Chorley FC's Victory Park on Wednesday, but City brought the game forward 24 hours and changed the venue to their HQ.
Mancini was not present at the match, but it is thought he could consider Tevez for selection for the Premier League match with Swansea a week on Saturday if he is in good condition.
The striker has not been in a City squad since the UEFA Champions League match at Bayern Munich, when a refusal to warm up precipitated a well-documented fall from grace.
Tevez had been keen to find another club in January but City wanted a good price and they will now feel he can play a crucial part in their pursuit of the title.
City are currently two points clear of Tevez's old club Manchester United at the top of the table.
