MAN CITY 5 – 0 Fulham – MY THOUGHTS

Onwards we march, creative flair and individual brilliance leading the way. Two penalties, two sublime stunners from our midfield maestros and a first City strike for Martin Demichelis totalled five goals, three points and the uplifting realisation that this wasn’t even a special performance. There was plenty left in reserve, a display that hinted at our ability but one which failed to reach the early-season levels. At this stage of the season, however, that is not a priority.

With Chelsea firing six past Arsenal and Liverpool swarming to victory over Cardiff, the pressure was on us to sweep aside our relegation-threatened visitors. To that extent, we did the job and we did it with enough ruthless finesse. This wasn’t the most fluent display we’ll see during the campaign but with the visit to Manchester United looming on Tuesday, immediately followed by a trip to face Arsenal, this was never likely to be an exhilarating performance. It was, nevertheless, professional and, by the end, overwhelming.

Amidst an efficient team showing, interspersed with moments of refined excellence, James Milner stood out. Yaya Touré will grab the headlines for his hat-trick, but Milner’s contribution should not be overlooked. Derided by his critics as merely an energetic workhorse, someone who can operate in a containing role but whose attacking threat is negligible, it is telling that those who watch him on a regular basis recognise and appreciate his qualities. He is so much more than a tireless runner.

He offers a headstrong, direct approach that contrasts perfectly with the silky guile of David Silva and Samir Nasri, yet his intelligence and touch enable him to play a part in our intricate attacking endeavours. He may not be as naturally gifted as those two, but his movement is always geared towards offering them an option and his touch in tight areas is understated, as highlighted by his flick to the Spaniard which brought about our second penalty. It is his combination of selflessness, attitude and ability which make him such a valuable member of the squad.

Throughout the team, it was an efficient display. Demichelis, after his authoritative command against Hull, was sharp and positive once more. Silva and Nasri showed glimpses of their invention, while Alvaro Negredo, after a recent laboured spell, produced a sparky performance. There was even a Stevan Jovetic return and a rare sighting of Jack Rodwell. All over, there were positives. And that was just what was needed.

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