Amid the delirium of Tuesday's FA Cup drama, Bristol Rovers boss Joey Barton went out of his way to thank Wael Al-Qadi for his support.
Despite a poor start to the season and issues arising off the field, Rovers owner Al-Qadi has weathered criticism and been unwavering in his support for Barton.
Barton revealed several weeks ago Al-Qadi talked the manager out of resigning, and the Gas boss believes the owner has a huge hand in Rovers' recent upturn in form which culminated in a remarkable comeback 4-3 win over Oxford United in extra time of the FA Cup first-round replay on Tuesday.
There are obstacles for Barton to overcome, including at Sheffield Crown Court next week where he is due to stand trial accused of assaulting former Barnsley manager. Barton denies the charge.
But on the pitch, Rovers, at last, have found stability, chemistry and an ability to entertain which has injected life into their season.
And Barton made clear in Tuesday's post-match press conference he feels fortunate to have the backing of Al-Qadi
"I had to sit in here a few times and say I do fully believe I am the man for the job because people were naturally starting to worry about the progression of the football club," he said.
"Thankfully for me, I had a good conversation with Wael and his leadership was huge in that.
"As a young coach, you want to believe the man who brought you to the club believes in you and the moment there was a bit of hesitation from me, the pressure was taken off me by the owner’s superb leadership in that moment.
"I think we’ve all benefitted. I think the whole football club has benefitted from that.
"He’s continued to do that and the club is right on the front foot now. The two games won this week give us a big boost and there are things happening on and off the pitch that are massive in this club driving to the level I believe it can get to, which is very high in the pyramid.
"Every single week, we’ve got to turn up and pay the rent on it, we’ve got to work incredibly hard as a club to drive this football club to the places that I think it can get to.
"We nearly put Fleetwood Town in the Championship with nowhere near this fanbase and nowhere near these resources.
"Great club, Fleetwood, but they can’t get 47,000 at a Conference play-off final at Wembley. It’s just not possible.
"I genuinely believe this club can go as far as it wants to go and, with the right plan and culture in place, who’s to stop us?"
Sign up for our newsletter for more exclusive Bristol Rovers content
