Warnock hands Southampton manager Martin Chinese menu in running joke

Warnock was working as a pundit for Sky Sports, alongside hero Franny Benali, as Saints went on to win 3-1 and reach the Wembley final.

Martin last week told the Daily Echo that he took Warnock's advice to take the team out for a meal ahead of the playoffs.

The article was seen by Warnock, who then responded by continuing the gag live on television at St Mary's on Friday.

Handing Martin a Chinese menu, Warnock joked: "Someone has sent me this in the post

Neil Warnock hands Russell Martin a Chinese takeaway menu (Image: Jamie Pragnell)

"There were no healthy meals in my day. It was Chinese or Indian."

In response, Martin quipped: “If we do prevail and get through then it is down to Neil and the meal.”

Warnock was actually given the menu by a member of Southampton's hospitality team but turned the gesture into a quality gag.

Warnock anticipates a competitive final between Saints and Leeds on Sunday, May 26, with the winners promoted to the Premier League.

"There will be nerves, the managers will be turning in their sleep - have I forgotten anything? Something will come to you.

"It is unbelievable as a manager at that level, but Russell is so calm, isn't he? Him and Daniel Farke are both smashing lads.

"I think it will be a good final, you looked at Leeds win 4-0 and thought they might walk it but they won't walk it.

"Southampton were even better under pressure at times like they will be again, they will break quickly at Wembley as well as it is a great pitch. Fans will have a great day out."