This was far from Newcastle United’s worst performance in the Premier League this season, but Manchester City didn’t even have to get out of first gear, such was the nature of their Etihad win this evening.
Our writer Miles Starforth was not impressed with the performance of a number of the 14 used by Steve Bruce tonight – here’s his individual marks, with Joelinton, Matt Ritchie and Miguel Almiron scoring particularly badly, while Karl Darlow, as expected, comes out on top for United.
1. Karl Darlow - 7
Left exposed for the first goal, blocked a first-half shot from De Bruyne, and kept the score down. Photo: DAVE THOMPSON
2. DeAndre Yedlin - 6
Pinned back for the first half, though did get upfield for a few attacks after the break. Photo: Newcastle United
3. Federico Fernandez - 6
Returned after recovering from “fatigue” following his time out with Covid-19, took the captain's armband. Photo: Matt McNulty - Manchester City
4. Fabian Schar - 6
Recalled to the starting XI after a month on the sidelines, lacked sharpness after his time out, but made a defensive contribution. Photo: Serena Taylor