Watch as exploding flare lands near ex-Sunderland and Liverpool favourite prompting Vincent Kompany to rush in

Anderlecht's Vincent Kompany and Club's goalkeeper Simon Mignolet pictured during a soccer match between RSC Anderlecht and Club Brugge, Sunday 19 January 2020 in Brussels, on day 22 of the 'Jupiler Pro League' Belgian soccer championship season 2019-2020. BELGA PHOTO VIRGINIE LEFOUR (Photo by VIRGINIE LEFOUR/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)

Simon Mignolet is fondly remembered on Wearside after an impressive three-season Stadium of Light stint earned the Belgian stopper earn a well-deserved big-money move to Liverpool.

Following six campaigns at Anfield – which saw him pick up Champions League winners medal – Mignolet swapped Liverpool for a return to his homeland, sealing a switch to Club Brugge at the end of last season.

However, the former Cats man was involved in a disturbing incident as his side took on Anderlecht – who are player-managed by Machester City legend and international teammate Vincent Kompany – in the Pro League on Sunday.

The 31-year-old, keeping goal in front of the Anderlecht fans, was shocked as flares and firecrackers thrown from the crowd landed at his feet.

One of the objects exploded, prompting a break in play. And Kompany – on the pitch at the time – reacted angrily towards Anderlecht’s fans and passionately demanded they stop before a show of support towards Mignolet.

Speaking after the incident, the Royal Belgian FA said: “The Professional Referee Department was pleased to see a positive reaction of respect and fair play during #ANDCLU.

“Respect & fair play helps our referees to do their job! #UnderReview.”

Mignolet, however, did enjoy the last laugh. His side picked up a 2-1 win to cement their position as league leaders by 10 points whilst Kompany’s Anderlecht slipped to ninth.