Player ratings: Manchester City v Norwich City
Hart – Another quiet day where most energy was expended in anger after conceding a goal. 6
Richards – Once again Micah initiated the breakthrough with a run behind the full-back. Also liked the backheel to set up a chance in the second half. Amongst all the Gary Speed tributes maybe this was one for Socrates. 8
K Toure – A couple of early mistakes betrayed his rustiness. Improved as the game wore on but doubt Lescott will be sweating on his place. 6
Kompany – Generally strong though, as captain, Vincent perhaps needs to ensure we don’t switch off late on. Great assist for Johnson at the death. 7
Clichy – Shouldn’t have been left isolated against Morison for the goal we conceded. Otherwise had another fine game, the highlight being a run and cut-back in the build-up for the fourth goal. 7
Y Toure – Looked a different player after the week off. Spraying passes and dispatching a fantastic goal. This was the good Yaya. 8
Barry – Another who seemed to possess greater energy than usual. By sitting deep, Norwich played into our hands and Barry was able to control the midfield. 8
Nasri (Johnson 68) – So much for rotation. Started his third game in a week and put in by far his best performance. Roamed across the attacking areas looking to unlock the Norwich defence. 8
Silva – Once again the opposition couldn’t track him. No need for David to stand out as everyone was contributing. 7
Aguero (Balotelli 71) – A much better all round game than at Arsenal. Might have had a couple more goals but the one he scored made you understand the comparisons with Romario. 8
Dzeko (De Jong 81) – Led the line excellently, without getting the goal his performance deserved. Just as against Arsenal, Edin’s passing was a real threat. 8
Subs:
Johnson – Staying behind after training and practicing finishing paid off for Adam. Lovely run and turn to set up Mario as well. 8
Balotelli – An amusing finish to seal the victory. Just what we want from Mario in his substitute appearances. 7
De Jong – Might have come on earlier to close the game out. Still a welcome sight. 7
Man of the match: Gareth Barry.
mathew
5 December 2011 - 6:02 pm
Kudos for recognising the quality of JOhnson’s cameo. I think pound for pound he is the most effective attacking player we have in the team, including SIlva.
He isn’t dominating the wing, but he is making the most of the ball with a real flair for a killer pass or a neat finish.
He is not the finished article yet, but I think we can enjoy watching him get better and better. I think he could become our Matt LeTissier, he has real quality.
Players like this, who could ordinarily let their egos run wild, benefit from plenty of time on the bench. It informs them to make the most of their playing time.