It was the kind of conspiracy theory that football fans love – especially at this time of year.

A picture on Dejan Lovren's Instagram account, showing the Liverpool defender in the changing rooms at Melwood, alongside teammates Gini Wijnaldum and Emre Can. Smiles all round.

A wink emoji formed Lovren's caption, leaving some Reds fans wondering if there was a hidden message.

Even more so when both Daniel Sturridge and Alberto Moreno posted comments below referring to money.

“Kerrrchinngg!!!” posted Sturridge, with Moreno opting for a pair of moneybag emojis.

'Something to do with Can's new contract?' asked the internet. Were Lovren, Moreno and Sturridge hinting at a new lucrative deal for the German?

Not for the first time, the truth may be a little more simplistic.

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Scroll a little further down the comments and we see Sturridge's name appear again.

(Image: Jason Roberts)

“Fine” he posts.

It is understood that Liverpool's players operate a system whereby offences in and around the training ground are punished with fines. Dressing-room selfies are one such offence.

Pay up, Dejan.

As for Can's future, it's Liam Gallagher for now. As you were.