Manchester City: Beautiful basics at the Bet365

STOKE ON TRENT, ENGLAND - MARCH 12: David Silva of Manchester City celebrates as he scores their second goal during the Premier League match between Stoke City and Manchester City at Bet365 Stadium on March 12, 2018 in Stoke on Trent, England. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) /

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STOKE ON TRENT, ENGLAND – MARCH 12: Fans wait outside the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Stoke City and Manchester City at Bet365 Stadium on March 12, 2018 in Stoke on Trent, England. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images) /

On A Cold Night In Stoke!

That is the famous line thrown out to sides (and players) who are seemingly ‘flair’. In the past it has been used in regards to Lionel Messi of Barcelona. Yes he is a skillful player but can he do it on a cold night in Stoke?!

Last season Pep Guardiola’s style of play could not work in the Premier League. This season has put that to bed, and now he’s proven the tactics do indeed work, on that cold night in Stoke.

In all seriousness, Monday was the first time City had done the League double over Stoke since 1998/99. That game was a 1-0 victory the only goal scored by Gerard Wiekens and took place when both were in the third tier of English football.