Cardiff City defender Sol Bamba marked his return to first-team action with a colossal performance as the Bluebirds earned a deserved 2-1 win over Sheffield Wednesday.
The Ivorian came off the bench to replace the injured Nathaniel Mendez-Laing shortly before half-time at Hillsborough, and put in a superb performance that included three crucial, goal-saving tackles.
This was Bamba at his best, much to the delight of the travelling Bluebirds contingent, who showed their appreciation at full time.
The 34-year-old has always been a popular figure in these parts for his determined performances on the pitch, as well as his clear love for the City supporters.
That was in full show outside Hillsborough before the match, where he was on hand to greet a six-year-old fan named Tianna, who's becoming a familiar face outside grounds up and down the country.
Bamba himself has met the youngster before, having given her his shirt at a game last season, and the pair clearly enjoy a special and heart-warming bond.
In a video posted to social media, Bamba greets the youngster before giving her a hug and adding: "I've not seen you for a while. Did you have a good Christmas?"
The caption for the video reads: "Tianna was so happy to see our amazing Sol Bamba back on the pitch today! What a performance! Like you've not even been away...Was wonderful to see you back. Thank you so much Sol for always giving Tianna these precious moments."
Young Tianna is seemingly well known to many of Cardiff's first-team stars, having previously met the likes of Lee Tomlin, Curtis Nelson, Will Vaulks and Neil Etheridge.
Here's hoping there are many great memories to come.
