The sporting idol is a close friend of City boss Aidy Boothroyd and the pair played together for Mansfield Town in the 1990's after Thompson has quit his athletics career.
"I couldn't beleive it when the gaffer introduced him to us before the game," said Carl Baker to the CT.
"I used to play Olympic computer games when I was young and I was always him, so seeing him automatcially gave us a boost because of what he has achieved and done in sport.
"To see him walk in with a Coventry City coat on was unbelieveable and a good touch to get us up for the game even more. It definitely did it for me to see someone who has won so many gold medals as him.
"He never gave a speech or anything but he spoke to the lads individually and it was just great to be in the presence of a man of such quality."