By the time Leo made his way back toward the team bus, the players were already scattered around it, some leaning against the side panels, others halfway through snacks they'd grabbed from the kit bags.
The cold night carried their laughter in short bursts, the mood reflecting the win.
"Look who finally decided to join us," McClean called out as Leo came closer, his grin broad and unmistakably mischievous.
He nudged the player next to him with an elbow. "Noise's gone to his head already. Thinks he can keep us all waiting now."
That drew a ripple of chuckles from the group.
A couple of them clapped their hands together, another tossed in a mock whistle like Leo was strutting down a runway.
Even Cousins, who rarely laughed at much, cracked a smile.
Leo shook his head, pulling his hood back, the corner of his mouth curling upward.
"Relax, I'm here now."
"Barely," McClean shot back.
