A statement on City's website said two matches of the punishment would be suspended and, as Thatcher had already been left out for Saturday's match against Arsenal, he would miss a further three matches.

The fine also contains a two-week suspended penalty, which means the initial cost to Thatcher will be four-week's wages.

Under City's ban Thatcher will miss Premiership matches at Reading and Blackburn and a League Cup trip to Chesterfield.

Thatcher was only booked by referee Dermot Gallagher for the forearm smash during the teams' draw at Eastlands last Wednesday which gave Portuguese midfielder Mendes concussion and caused a seizure.

The English Football Association (FA) had charged Thatcher over the clash and Manchester police were also investigating the incident.

But City boss Stuart Pearce has taken a hard line with the former Tottenham defender and he will hope the decision to suspend Thatcher will pre-empt any further punishment from the FA.

City chief executive Alistair Mackintosh told the club's website: "As custodians of the club, and football in general, the Board and the Manager felt it was important to act as soon as possible."