Kevin De Bruyne
believes Fernandinho’s return from suspension will provide the foundation for
Manchester City to get their spluttering Premier League campaign back on track
at West Ham on Wednesday.
Pep Guardiola’s side
have dropped out of the top four and trail leaders Chelsea by 12 points after
winning just one of their last four league games.
Guardiola wrote off
City’s titles hopes during that unexpected slump, but a comfortable 3-0
victory at Crystal Palace in the FA Cup fourth round on Saturday was a much
needed tonic and De Bruyne anticipates the return of Brazil midfielder
Fernandinho will be even more significant.
Fernandinho has served
a four-match ban after receiving his third red card in six games in a win
against Burnley on January 2.
During Fernandinho’s
absence, City looked alarmingly vulnerable and were thrashed 4-0 at Everton in
Guardiola’s heaviest league defeat as a manager.
But the 31-year-old is
expected to return to the starting line-up at the London Stadium, with De
Bruyne predicting an upturn in City’s fortunes.
“Obviously we’ve missed
him,” De Bruyne said. “He’s been an important player throughout his time at City.
“He plays a pivotal
role for us in midfield and helps keep everything organised, plus he’s also
very good on the ball.
“Now he’s served his
ban and is available for us again, so it’s a big boost for the team because
he’s missed seven games this season through suspension.
“If you get a red card
in England you’re banned for three or sometimes four games which is
unbelievable, but there’s not much you can do about it. I think one game is
enough but those are the rules, I suppose.
“I think Ferna’s one of
the best holding midfielders I’ve ever played with. We are very lucky to have
him.”
Comments