Player ratings: Manchester City v Sunderland

Hart – No Gyan induced concern for Joe in this match as Kompany and co prevented Sunderland from having a shot on target until the 77th minute. 6

Boyata (McGivern 70) – A superb return bearing in mind it was only his second ever appearance at right-back. Comfortable on the ball and didn’t over-complicate his play. 7

Kolarov – One lunge picked up a booking, but otherwise this was a decent showing. The hard, low crosses were a threat and led to the fourth goal. Determined pressing of Cattermole also led to the fifth. 6

Kompany – With less midfield protection than usual Vincent had to be on his toes against the pacy Sunderland attack. He did this superbly. 8

Lescott – Terrific response to the stick he received for failing to deal with Gyan when playing for England. That was a friendly, this wasn’t and Joleon reminded us of his Premier League qualities. 7

De Jong – Busier than usual after Mancini surprisingly rested Barry. Grew stronger as the game wore on and played in Tevez for the third goal with a pass which Silva would have been proud of. 8

Y Toure – Didn’t do enough defensively, often letting Sunderland midfielders get goalside. Better going forward where he created the opener for Johnson and scored the fifth himself. 7

Silva (Wright-Phillips 78) – Had a mixed day with his passing, yet still the most important player at linking play between midfield and attack. Good to see him getting into the six yard area to score. 7

A Johnson (Vieira 66) – The opening goal was his finest moment with a finish that left the goalkeeper wrong-footed. From then on there was a threat without an end product. The tendency to over-elaborate at corners can be frustrating. 7

Tevez – Not for the first time his penalty was nearly saved but crept in. Often played deeper to allow Balotelli into the attacking space. This doesn’t get the best out of Carlos when his passing lacks accuracy. 7

Balotelli – No goals, no cards, no controversy. Boring to some, “Perfect” said Mancini. The reality was a reminder of the talent Mario possesses: terrific footwork, deft flicks, powerful shooting and the physical attributes of acceleration and pace. 7

Subs:

Vieira – You can’t ask for more than a goal with your first touch. From then on Patrick provided additional midfield cover to help ensure a clean sheet. 7

Wright-Phillips – Used his pace to repeatedly break down the right in an excellent cameo. 7

McGivern – A surprise to see the left-back on the bench, never mind at right-back. Slotted in comfortably. 6

Man of the match: Vincent Kompany.