Aston Villa midfielder Stephen Ireland has paid tribute to Kevin MacDonald, who returns to his role as reserve team coach this week after his six-week stint as caretaker boss came to an end.
Villa's players ran to the dugout to celebrate the opening goal against Bolton Wanderers with MacDonald and Ireland revealed they were keen to say thanks to the Scotsman by giving him a positive send-off.
"Everybody has got a strong bond with Kevin," said Ireland.
"He is a really nice guy and I think everyone wanted to send him off in a positive way.
"We were unfortunate not to get the win to do that. But I think it shows the relationship he has with the players."
