[ENGLAND] Carlos Tevez's performance in Manchester City's 2-1 win over Chelsea gave Manchester United fans an opportunity to cheer and despair on Saturday. Tevez's winning goal sent English Premier League leader Chelsea to defeat and reduced its edge over United to two points. But he showed why Alex Ferguson and United management may rue their decision not to buy out Tevez's contract.

The Argentine Tevez put City ahead with his second goal on a free kick in as many games and sixth goal of the season.

Tevez, who played on loan to United for two seasons, joined City when United refused to pay a consortium that owned his contract $40 million. City celebrated its coup of acquiring Tevez during the summer by erecting a billboard with the words "Welcome to Manchester."

United fans booed Tevez when he returned to Old Trafford early in the season.

"I was disappointed to be treated that way by the fans," he said. "When I was there I was a hard-working and loyal player who gave my all. But the first thing I must say is that I have a great deal of respect for the United fans and I won't celebrate if I score against them."

He didn't score in City's 4-3 loss but will be back at Old Trafford when United hosts City in the semifinals of the Carling Cup.

"Obviously I'd be delighted to beat United and reach the final," said Tevez, "but I still have some respect for the club and what they did for me, so I wouldn't want to rub their noses in it."