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Manchester City fans' songs about empty seats at the Etihad and Pep Guardiola show a classic Mancunian wit - but it was the champions' XI who didn't turn up against Southampton

They do self-deprecating wit quite well around these parts. It's almost an essential trait to possess as a Mancunian. As well as enjoying your football.

So Pep Guardiola, who has always made clear that he understands the culture and history of Manchester City, ought to have expected what arrived from the vocal safe standing area of a packed Etihad Stadium seconds after kick-off.

They sing about having enjoyed trips to Rotterdam, Monaco, Napoli and Rome – a nod to European travels – before ending the ditty by referencing the main source of criticism by their detractors.