But not to manager Sven-Goran Eriksson as he prepares to wield the axe in the Swede’s direction at the end of the season. Thaksin Shinawatra has instead apologised to the Thai government for a flag which was apparently unfurled at the Manchester City v Fulham game ten days ago.

The Daily Telegraph report that the Thai national flag was embazoned with the words ‘Thank you Thaksin’, something which caused consternation in Thailand where it’s forbidden to deface the flag in any way, shape or form. It’s not exactly clear whether City fans were involved in this act at all, or whether this was a publicity stunt by the City owner. However, ‘Frank’ has apologised on behalf of the people that did it.

“I saw it, but was occupied with the game,” Thaksin said. “The fans are now well aware that the actions caused unhappiness in Thailand and they asked me to convey their regrets.”

Given the current ill feeling towards Shinawatra, it’s hard to imagine City fans brandishing this flag, especially as their owner is so fond of self-promotion. It’s even harder to imagine that they had the opportunity to convey their regrets for an apparent wrongdoing. Once again, is this the action of a madman?

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