The weirdest superstitions in football

For all the millions they've spent this summer, Manchester City's success may well depend on a small bottle of holy water.

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Whether it's based on superstition or religion, goalkeeper Shay Given always takes a vial of Holy Water on to the pitch to be placed in the back of his goal. His predecessor in the Ireland goal, Celtic legend Packie Bonner would reputedly take a piece of clay from County Donegal on to the pitch in his glove bag.

So while you worry about how your team will fare, be sure in the knowledge that some of your players are relying not on talent or application, but on superstition and lady luck.

As World Cup winner Alan Ball put it: "I don't believe in luck, but I do believe you need it."