The Mozart of pragmatic intervention: Fernandinho keeps City ticking over | Jonathan Wilson


He’s not big, not quick and doesn’t score, but the Brazilian’s elegant efficiency made the difference against Everton

Football isn’t always about glamour. In fact, it usually isn’t about glamour. On evenings like this, when one team have a very specific plan to contain and counter, perhaps the most important virtues are patience and consistency.

Manchester City may be contemplating the greatest season in their history but they, just as much as anybody else, need a player who can be relied upon not to give the ball away, to hold his position to block the break and to commit tactical fouls when necessary.

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