Gvardiol: I'm happy to be back | OneFootball

Josko Gvardiol communicated his elation after returning to action for the first time since early January, helping us to a 3-0 Premier League victory over Crystal Palace.

Match Report

City close gap at the top to two points with stylish win

After picking up an injury back on 4 January in the 1-1 Premier League draw with Chelsea, the Croatian made his return straight back into the starting lineup for the visit of the Eagles.

Goals from Antoine Semenyo, Omar Marmoush and Savinho saw us claim all three points at the Etihad, taking us two points behind league-leaders Arsenal.

GALLERY: FANTASTIC FODEN  SOARS AGAINST EAGLES!

Gvardiol enjoyed a solid 58 minutes on his surprise return to the starting XI and almost grabbed a first-half goal, but his header was spectacularly saved by Dean Henderson.

“To be fair I was surprised as well! I didn’t expect my name in the starting XI,” began Gvardiol in an interview after the game. “I found out two or three hours before kick-off. You have to be ready.

“I’m happy to be back and happy to be in the starting XI. We all know we have three games left. Happy to be back and get some minutes. I would say it’s normal. I’m getting older and more experienced than a couple of years ago. I took it as a man and tried to play as simple as I can.

“It was close. It would be too unreal to score a goal in my first game back from injury. Maybe in the next one.

“It hasn’t been easy. After I got injured I just accepted it as a new challenge. I’m just glad to be back. I’m feeling good actually. I wouldn’t say I’m at my 100%. It’s normal, I need minutes and games.”

FODEN OVERJOYED AFTER STARRING ROLE IN VICTORY OVER PALACE

After a faily flat opening 30 minutes, a moment of magic from Phil Foden saw City make the breakthrough as the Englishman produced a sublime backheel to set up Semenyo’s opener.

After that, Pep’s side were at their free-flowing best, carving out chances at will.

Gvardiol admitted the team needed that bit of magic from Foden to push on and claim an important victory.

“Of course we know his quality and how good he is in small spaces. He is really good and I enjoy playing with him.

“I didn’t expect it but we know he is capable of these things.

“That’s exactly what we needed. It was a great assist.”