Bayern's Lahm, Toni fined for disciplinary violations

BERLIN (Reuters) - Bayern Munich imposed a club record fine on defender Philipp Lahm and also fined striker Luca Toni on Monday for disciplinary violations before and during the Bundesliga match against Schalke 04 on Saturday.

The extent of the fines were not immediately disclosed.

Lahm had criticised Bayern's buying plan in a newspaper interview days ago, saying the club were purchasing players just because they were good and not as part of a wider team concept that would improve their performance.

Toni incurred Bayern's wrath after driving home at halftime after being substituted in their 1-1 draw against Schalke.

"We are disappointed because as a substitute captain (Lahm) has a special responsibility for the team and club," said general director Karl-Heinz Rummenigge. "So Philipp Lahm is fined a record amount never seen before at Bayern."

Rummenigge said Lahm broke club rules by not submitting the interview for approval and for criticising the club in public.

"Philipp broke both specific rules," Rummenigge said.

Italian Toni, unhappy with his treatment under coach Louis van Gaal, has been fighting for a starting spot hoping to get matches under his belt and make the Italy squad for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

"By leaving without any permission, Luca Toni showed an unacceptable loss of discipline," the club said in a statement.