Football fans have grown accustomed to their favourite clubs getting involved in social media 'banter' with other teams, but sometimes it all takes a bit of a surreal turn.
Aston Villa and Virgin Trains took part in a lively Twitter discussion on Tuesday following the sacking of coach Roberto Di Matteo, with the train operating company poking fun at Villa's search for a new manager.
Virgin Trains (@VirginTrains) tweeted a picture of an empty carriage with the caption: "With Roberto Di Matteo leaving, the next batch of potential #AVFC managers have just left for Birmingham New Street..."
But Villa's social media team didn't see the funny side of the message, replying: "Would our managerial candidates actually get here for interviews on time if they arrived via @VirginTrains?"
Virgin Trains then twisted the knife by pointing out Villa's sorry run from Premier League relegation to another basement battle in the Championship, writing: "We've had more trains arrive on time in the last week than you've had wins in 12 months @AVFCOfficial".
Villa then led with run-down of their achievements, writing: "1 European Cup, 7 League Championships, 7 FA Cups, 5 League Cups, Get back in your Quiet Coach @VirginTrains!"
As with most trash talk, the best way to settle it is usually in the heat of battle - and Virgin Trains laid down the gauntlet with a challenge to a match - albeit with just eight players representing the company in a team photo.
