MSI criticise Corinthians over Carlos Alberto ban

Brazilian champions Corinthians have been criticised by their London-based partners Media Sports Investments (MSI) over a decision to suspend midfielder Carlos Alberto.

MSI, who signed a controversial 10-year partnership with the Sao Paulo-based club in December 2004, said that they finance the team and did not accept the decision.

"MSI does not agree with the unilateral decisions taken by the directors of Sport Club Corinthians Paulista in relation to Carlos Alberto," MSI said.

Carlos Alberto was dropped last month after being involved in a public row with coach Emerson Leao.

The former Porto midfielder angrily remonstrated with Leao after being substituted in the 30th minute of a Copa Sudamericana tie away to Lanus of Argentina. He was barred from the team for insubordination and ordered to train alone.

Corinthians said in a statement issued by director of football Edvar Simoes that Carlos Alberto had been suspended for 29 days and fined 40 per cent of his monthly wages.

The player abandoned the solitary training sessions after less than one week and travelled to London where he was the subject of speculation over a possible move to West Ham United.

Carlos Alberto was one of a number of expensive signings brought to the club under the MSI deal.

Although Corinthians won last year's Brazilian championship, the partnership has been fraught with difficulties.

Leao is the seventh coach at the club in the last two years and there has been a huge turnover of players.

Corinthians were mired in the Brazilian championship relegation zone until last month but have pulled clear by winning their last four games.