Pep Guardiola hailed Manchester City’s best performance of the season as they eased to a 2-0 victory over Newcastle on a wet and windy Boxing Day night.
Ilkay Gundogan and Ferran Torres struck in each half at the Etihad Stadium as City climbed up to fifth in the Premier League with a convincing display.
“It was the best performance of the season,” City manager Guardiola said. “That is the tempo we need to play. Everybody needs to do their jobs and this was a good example. Our positional game was perfect.
“We have had a difficult time with Covid and people struggling with illness.
“We wanted them to recover, roll their sleeves up and have a go at Manchester City. That is difficult against them but their attitude was excellent.”
City dominated the game but Newcastle were still in contention until Torres struck City’s second after a mistake by Miguel Almiron.
“We gave the ball away in a poor area and if you do that against a top team you get punished,” said Bruce.
“But I wanted us to respond from a poor showing and I am pleased they did that.”
Newcastle, who were without Allan Saint-Maximin and Jamaal Lascelles due to Covid-19, saw Joelinton leave the game early with a hip injury. Bruce also confirmed Jonjo Shelvey and Ryan Fraser missed the game with injuries.
