The sight of a steward scurrying to the Stoke City bench carrying a hot water bottle was one of the enduring memories of their Premier League match at Manchester City.
The incident took place in the opening minutes as the steward was seen carrying the hot water bottle – it was coloured City blue – through the stand, weaving his way down to the touchline.
It was a surprise bearing in mind it was a still and relatively balmy March evening and most of the seats are heated.
Who the recipient of the hot water bottle was not disclosed, though a Stoke City official thought the most likely player was substitute Giannelli Imbula.
Sadly there was nothing to warm the spirits on the pitch as it was a lukewarm match that ended in a drab goalless draw.