One City fan tweeted, ‘The quickest Yaya moved all night was to shake Pep’s hand,’ with another claiming that ‘Yaya cuddling Pep, just not what we want to see after his performance tonight.

Toure’s contribution on the pitch was highlighted by others, including one tweet which said, "What's with Yaya Toure laughing and joking with Pep at the end there?? Should have pulled ya finger out tonight instead!! Certainly not funny!!"

Having enraged supporters in May following claims by his agent, Dmitri Seluk, that City had failed to show Toure sufficient respect by failing to celebrate his 31st birthday appropriately, the player ultimately performed an about-turn following suggestions that he was ready to consider his future at the club.

But despite his insistence that he was still fully committed to City, the club rejected the opportunity to reward the player with a new contract, instead handing new terms to David Silva and Sergio Aguero.

Having signed a new deal towards the end of the 2012-13 season, it is understood that City currently have no plans to open discussions over improved terms with Toure.

The midfielder is expected to figure against Chelsea on Sunday having missed last Saturday’s 2-2 draw at Arsenal due to a late return from international duty in Africa.