Yes, I was above the alcohol limit but I dont drink intentionally- Manchester City striker Yaya Toure

Yaya Toure has admitted he was over the drink driving limit — but insists he does not drink alcohol.

The Manchester City midfielder was arrested in Dagenham, east London last month - two days after playing in City's 2-1 win over Burnley.

He was fined £54,000 and banned from driving for 18 months when he appeared at Barkingside Magistrates' Court on Monday, court officials said.

Toure has since released a statement, admitting: "I was above the permitted limit."

The Ivorian insisted, however, that he had "not intentionally consumed alcohol" and reiterated that he in fact never drinks alcohol intentionally.

“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," said Toure.

 “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.”