Vincent Kompany marked his return to the Manchester City line-up with a rare goal as his side climbed to third in the Premier League with a 3-0 win at Southampton on Saturday.
Pep Guardiola’s team were in control for long periods at St Mary’s, but it wasn’t until the 55th minute that City captain Kompany put them ahead with his first goal since August 2015.
Leroy Sane and Sergio Aguero made sure of the three points with further goals in the 77th and 80th minutes respectively.
Mid-table Saints failed to create many chances against a City side well marshalled by Kompany, with Dusan Tadic shooting over before the break.
Claude Puel’s side, who were attempting to win three successive league games for the first time under the Frenchman, remain in ninth place.
City’s talismanic captain has made just eight appearances in another campaign limited by niggling injuries, but returned at St Mary’s with an imperious display.
While Kompany will grab the headlines for his goal, his work at the other end of the pitch – leadership, organisation and composure – is what the Blues have been lacking at times this season.
City’s defensive resilience meant keeper Claudio Bravo – trusted again by Guardiola – barely had to make a save.
And it laid the platform for the visitors to cut Saints apart once Kompany, who marked his goal with an exuberant celebration, had made the breakthrough.
“I scored in front of the away fans and for me it was a great feeling,” the Belgian said.
“I feel like I want to give so much but I am restrained at times. I keep positive and keep going no matter what.”