De Bruyne back for Man City as holders power into FA Cup fourth round

Belgium midfielder De Bruyne had been sidelined since tearing his hamstring during City's Premier League opener against Burnley in August. He finally got back in action as a 57th minute substitute in City's emphatic victory over the Championship strugglers at the Etihad Stadium. Chants of 'Oh Kevin De Bruyne' echoed around the stands when the 32-year-old replaced Julian Alvarez.

Guardiola's side were leading by goals from Phil Foden and Alvarez when De Bruyne was introduced. De Bruyne's arrival kept the momentum going as City netted three more times through Ben Jackson's own goal, another Foden effort and a Jeremy Doku strike on his return from injury as a second half substitute. Fittingly, Doku's goal was set up by a deft lofted pass from De Bruyne.

City have stayed afloat without De Bruyne, but his world-class quality in midfield will be a key factor in their bid to retain their trophies.