After a difficult week at the office for Manchester City, a 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur saw Pep Guardiola's side jump to the top of the table again. In doing so, it was the performance of the mercurial Bernardo Silva that stood out above everyone else.
When Kevin De Bruyne's afternoon was cut short by injury, it was the Portuguese international who stepped into the Belgian's shoes to ensure the reigning champions made their way back to the top of the table. And, as expected by many, he won Man of the Match for his efforts.
But it was perhaps his actions at the end of the game that spoke loudest of all.
During an interview with Sky Sports, Silva was being presented with his award by goal-scorer Phil Foden when he decided to award the accolade to his younger teammate. Foden had scored the only goal of the day, helping his side land a considerable blow in the title race.
Paying tribute to the teenager, Silva said:
I honestly think he deserves it; he's so young.
He's a fantastic player and this one's for you. He's scored the winner so congratulations.
👏 - "This one is for you, you scored the winner!"
Bernardo Silva with a touch of class, even in his post-match interview...✨ pic.twitter.com/U6LJC1KyLR— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) April 20, 2019
18-year-old Foden was handed a surprise start at the Etihad Stadium and rewarded Guardiola for his faith in him when nodding home the game's only goal within five minutes.
It was Silva, however - shortlisted for both the PFA Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year before the game - who effectively created the opportunity when he cut inside before crossing to Sergio Aguero at the back post. The Argentinian nodded the ball back across the face of goal where Foden was waiting to help the ball home.
The pressure is now heaped back on Liverpool, who must beat Cardiff City tomorrow if they want to regain their position at the top of the league table. Attention will then turn Wednesday's clash at Old Trafford where Manchester United will provide their cross-city rivals with their last major obstacle in what is turning out to be quite the fascinating run-in.
