However, manager Gus Poyet may have been rueing his loyalty to Brezovan after two early errors resulted in his side being 2-0 down after only 22 minutes.

BBC: John Carew scores the opener for Stoke

Despite the assertions of loyalty and job security put out by the City hierarchy regarding their manager Roberto Mancini, the Italian could be in danger of bankrupting himself in the eyes of the Eastlands faithful through his continuing failure to produce a side whose sparkle matches the bling it took to recruit them.

BBC: Man City 0-0 Birmingham

The appointment of Sammy Lee as manager following Allardyce's decision to leave was born out of romantic loyalty.

BBC: Fan power sends Megson packing