Following an investigation, the fire is believed to have been accidental, and caused by an item of clothing which fell onto an electric plug in heater, the Manchester Evening News has learned.

A fire engulfs a merchandise stand outside Etihad Stadium as fans gather before Manchester City's Champions League home game against Club Brugge.

A fire outside the Etihad Stadium threatened to derail Manchester City’s preparations ahead of their final Champions League clash. The Citizens are preparing to face Club Brugge on Wednesday