The Crown Casino in Perth is a lively place. Everywhere you turn, your senses come under attack. The bright lights of the slot machines dazzle your eyes, the sound of punters revelling in big blackjack wins can be heard across the vast room, and your nostrils are likely to be invaded by the stench of stale beer in the carpet.

Even in Australia’s winter months, the casino draws many visitors from the adjoining six-star hotel, which is where Manchester United stopped last July on the first leg of their pre-season tour. Emiliano Álvarez, the goalkeeper coach, took advantage of the 24-hour bar, and on one occasion was seen holding court well after 4am. Other late nights are said to have followed. Álvarez was compos mentis