Until then, City’s capture from CKSA Sofia had been peerless as he guided a young City backline through the first half of a season which showed just two league blemishes.

Sasho, as he was known to CKSA fans, had arrived at City with a big reputation. He was captain of the Sofia team and a regular fixture in the Bulgarian national team.

But the club had financial troubles and had to sell their best players, with CKSA fans bemoaning the loss of Tunchev as City fans rubbed their hands in anticipation.

His capture was another example of the club’s summer recruitment campaign with coach Steve Walsh keeping a watchful eye on developments across Europe.

He would have a nailed-on bet for player of the year but for the injury setback, and a fit-again Tunchev will be a wonderful addition to the squad being primed for next season’s campaign.