McCann struck his former Sunderland team mate Thome on the cheek following the aftermath of a foul on the Bolton keeper Jussi Jaaskelainen by the midfielder which eventually resulted in him getting sent off and the Brazilian centre half says that any ill feeling towards his former collegue is now forgotten about.
"Gavin went over the top with a very harsh challenge (on Jussi Jaaskelainen). I went over to speak to him and in the end he slapped my face. I forgive him; it's his hurt, not mine."
Meanwhile Nicky Hunt is set to miss a forthcoming Premiership match after picking up his fifth booking of the season last night at Aston Villa shortly before half-time.