A football (soccer if you're elsewhere) away day is something every fan looks forward to - particularly a European adventure.
Early flight, crack on the drinks, watch your team (win?) and then crash out in the hotel.
You don't need anything fancy, just somewhere that's got a comfy bed, a kettle for a cup of coffee in the morning, and kitchen that can do a decent breakfast.
All sounds good so far... unless your hotel is situated in Rostov, Russia. (Rostov will host World Cup matches next year - just bear that in mind)
A Manchester United fan, known only as Matt on social media, checked in to his hotel and decided to read the pamphlets for general browsing.
Advert
United were in the Russian city to face FC Rostov in their Europa League round of 16 tie.
What he expected in the leaflet was, perhaps, 'how to order room service', 'what time the gym opens'. What he did NOT expect was what to do, 'if you're held hostage of kidnapped'.
Hardly settling.
The note read: "Do not resist. Execute the initial orders of terrorists."
"They can be people with an unhealthy state of mind and behave unpredictably," it continued.
On top of that it said that should you find yourself in the traumatic situation, it's probably best to have a notepad and pen with you. Shit the bed!
"Try to keep in mind how they look, their habit, how and whom they speak to," it read.
"Try to remember all movements, including the time, direction, distance, speeds and any reference points."
United's performance was nowhere near as scary as the note Matt found in Rostov. Credit: PA
Advert
Finally, should you find yourself in front of a camera, telephone, or with a pen in hand...
It explained: "It should be done in such a form as kidnappers insist. It is necessary to avoid your own statements and assessment as it can worsen the situation."
At least the bottom of the note offers what to do if rescued - a little ray of hope in the promise you may get out of the ordeal.
You can only hope that you'll be rescued by someone like this heroic police officer. Please be warned, the video within the link contains graphic content.
The terrorists, armed with explosives and with a supposed hostage, were shot at point blank range by the policeman.
The incident, in fairness, took place nowhere near Russia. It was instead near the Saudi Arabia capital of Riyadh.
Having said that, Matt told social media that, although the city is 'very run down', the people are 'very pleasant' and he was yet to see any trouble.
Sleep well, Matt.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Football, Manchester United, Hotel, Terrorist
