The match between Cardiff City v Coventry City was paused on Wednesday afternoon following an injury to referee Geoff Eltringham.

In the 17th minute of New Year's Day game at Cardiff City Stadium, Eltringham left the field but five minutes elapsed before supporters were told what was going on, with the stadium left confused by the abrupt stoppage.

Fourth official James Durkin began prepping himself to replace the man in the middle but it quickly became apparent that there was no-one to step in for Durkin himself.

READ MORE: Cardiff City player destined for January exit now forcing transfer U-turn

READ MORE: Stoke City appoint Mark Robins as new manager and ex-Cardiff City coach as assistant

The stadium announcer then made a plea over the ground's public address system to ask if there were any qualified referees in attendance who could fulfil the role.

Play restarted after five minutes without a fourth official in place. Eventually, Eltringham emerged from the tunnel with a long coat on over his referee's kit and took on the role. You can follow live updates here.

More follows.