City sponsors Etihad offer cheeky tribute to United after Reds claim title back by taking out ad in Manchester newspaper



Manchester City's sponsors Etihad Airways offered their congratulations to new Premier League champions Manchester United by publishing a cheeky advert in the city's newspaper.



Robin van Persie led United to a crushing victory over Aston Villa on Monday night which - after City were humbled at Tottenham on Sunday - ensured the Red Devils reclaimed the Premier League trophy.

On Monday night, the United stars partied in Manchester city centre as Roberto Mancini's men reflected on where things went wrong in their withering title defence.



Cheeky: Etihad Airways posted this advert, containing the picture of Manchester United players in a City-sponsored taxi after their celebration in the city centre, in the Manchester Evening News

At the end of the night, centre backs Nemanja Vidic, Rio Feridnand and other United players were photographed climbing into a sky blue, City-sponsored taxi.

And Etihad have cleverly offered their congratulations to United in their title triumph by mischievously placing an advert with the photograph in the Manchester Evening News.



Underneath the picture, Etihad have printed the message: 'CONGRATULATIONS MANCHESTER UNITED. YOU DESERVE TO GO HOME IN STYLE.'

Last season, Etihad scored a sporting double, as their two sponsored teams triumphed in their domestic leagues.

As well as City taking the Premier League title over to the blue half of Manchester, Harlequins rugby union side won the Aviva Premiership.



The main man: Robin van Persie gives a thumbs up to photographers from his vehicle

Big night: Rio Ferdinand appeared to be enjoying Monday night's celebrations

