The footballer returned to find his grey Chevrolet Captiva Estate was gone after he had nipped back inside his home in Oldham, Greater Manchester.

Drivers are being reminded to not leave their vehicles unattended while they defrost their cars, as many insurers will not pay the claim should the car be stolen.

According to the British Insurance Brokers Association (BIBA), motorists may not be able to claim on their insurance if the vehicle is stolen because:

• Most motor insurance policies now have a specific “keys in car ” or “vehicle left unattended” clause and exclude claims in these circumstances.

• In addition, there will be a ‘reasonable care’ clause, whereby the insurer may reject a claim on the grounds of the policyholder being ‘reckless’ in not safeguarding the vehicle.

The following situations could leave motorists’ cars at risk:

• Leaving the keys in/on the vehicle or in the ignition.

• Leaving an unlocked vehicle unattended.

• Vehicles are most vulnerable when people are paying for petrol or are outside the family home.

Instead, drivers should aim to leave enough time each morning to defrost their cars properly without leaving their cars unattended.