Carlos Tevez's Father Freed after Argentina Kidnappers' Ransom Paid

The father of Juventus striker Carlos Tevez has been freed after he was kidnapped in Argentina having been held captive for eight hours.

Segundo Tevez was taken by a group of men in the town of Moron, around 20 miles (30km) west of the capital Buenos Aires.

It is reported the men did not originally know who he was and only intended to take his car. Upon looking at his name on the registration, they immediately changed their minds, captured him and promptly demanded a ransom.

Neither the family nor police confirmed whether a ransom was paid before Segundo Tevez was released, but local media are reporting a sum of 400,000 pesos (£30,000) was paid to his captors.

The former Manchester United and Manchester City player confirmed his father had been released without harm via Twitter.

"I thank everyone for their support always. I'm able to tell you my father is ok, safe and sound. That's what's most important," he said.

"I also thank... the Buenos Aires and Federal and Anti-kidnapping police (forces) for their support for my family."

According to Reuters, the kidnappers were also said to be upset Tevez was not picked by Argentina coach Alejandro Sabella for the World Cup finals in Brazil despite scoring 19 goals in Serie A last season.

"We're annoyed with Sabella because he didn't call him up to the national team," the kidnappers said, according to The daily La Nacion newspaper.