Players from a top European football club have been spotted taking a flight from Teesside Airport after playing a pre-season friendly over the weekend. 

Squad members from AS Monaco could be seen going through the airport on Saturday (July 22) after playing a friendly against Leeds United at Leeds' Elland Road, winning 2-0 against the Championship side. 

While some wondered why the club were flying from Teesside, others praised the team for picking the North East over flying straight from Leeds Bradford Airport. 

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The moment that AS Monaco players got on the plane was captured by Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen, who posted on his social media page about the 'VIP guests'.

The Mayor said: "AS Monaco flying out from Teesside Airport.

The Northern Echo: AS Monaco players arriving at Teesside AirportAS Monaco players arriving at Teesside Airport (Image: BEN HOUCHEN)

"Last night our airport welcomed AS Monaco for flights back home to Nice after their match against Leeds United.

"Whether it’s passenger flights, cargo flights or hosting VIPs like this, Teesside can do it all."

The Northern Echo: AS Monaco were flying from Teesside Airport after playing Leeds UnitedAS Monaco were flying from Teesside Airport after playing Leeds United (Image: BEN HOUCHEN)

Responding to the Mayor, some were shocked to see the European team at the airport, saying: "It's good to see them using Teesside," while others joked that he should have tried to get a few of the players to sign for Middlesbrough.