LEGAL action brought against Manchester City star Elano has been thrown out of court and a charity has netted £7,250 thanks to the player's generosity after he was awarded costs from the case.

The gifted Brazilian decided to give the cash away after he was awarded the amount following the collapse of the action.

The money will go to Francis House Children's Hospice, in Didsbury.

A dispute arose in connection with Elano's transfer from Ukrainian team Shaktar Donetsk to Manchester City.

An agent in Brazil spuriously claimed that he had an exclusive contract with the player which entitled him to 10 per cent of the £8m transfer fee.

The player fought the action with the help of Graham Walker, of Knutsford solicitors Nexus. He handed over the cash at his legal team's offices.

"I was happy to donate the money to such a worthy cause," said the midfielder, who joined the Blues 12 months ago and became a cult hero.

He added: "As a proud dad myself I find the wonderful work done at Francis House both uplifting and touching.

"They are totally dedicated people and do a fantastic job. I am pleased to able to help in a small way."

Mr Walker confirmed it was always the player's intention for charity to benefit.

He said: "Elano did not have a moment's hesitation when we received the cheque for the costs .

"He immediately said he wanted others to benefit from the award." A spokesman for the player said: "Elano wanted to get away from the Ukraine and wanted to get to the UK or elsewhere in Europe.

This agent met him at a hotel and said he could get him to Chelsea or Madrid and got him to sign some papers. But Elano was never given a copy of the papers nor was FIFA or the league where Elano was playing.

"After the transfer the agent was trying to sue him but a barrister successfully argued for Elano that the contract did not entitle the agent to anything and the case was thrown out."

Francis House cares for 150 children and their families every year offering parents respite from their role as carers. All the children suffer from illnesses for which there is no known cure.