Michael Brown praised Manuel Akanji after his fine performance for Manchester City in Tuesday night’s win over Brentford.
City have closed the gap at the top of the Premier League table to just one point now, with Erling Haaland scoring the game’s only goal at the Etihad Stadium.
After the frustrations of Saturday against Chelsea, the Norwegian struck in the second-half for City against the Bees, taking advantage of a slip from Kris Ajer.
It was Haaland’s 17th Premier League goal of the season, and he has now scored against every single Premier League side he’s faced.
At full-time, former City midfielder Michael Brown gave Manuel Akanji his flowers after a top performance…
Michael Brown says Manuel Akanji deserved man of the match award vs Brentford
Brown appeared on City’s Matchday Live show on YouTube last night, and spoke to City presenter FG live from the Etihad Stadium.
He was pleased with the performance from City, who showed a lot of patience against a very stubborn Brentford side.
The Bees had their whole team behind the ball for most of the game, and it was very difficult for City to break them down.
Haaland eventually stepped up, but one man who had a really good game was Akanji, who was named man of the match.
The Switzerland international was something of a surprise starter, especially since he played at left-back.
It’s a position the £180,000-a-week star has played a few times before, but by and large, Akanji plays in the middle or sometimes over on the right.
As Akanji walked behind him and towards the tunnel, Brown said: “There he is. Played in a left-back position (tonight). It’s not easy to do, stepping forward. His shot as well… he deserved it (man of the match).
Akanji brilliant against Brentford
Haaland made headlines with game-winning goal, but Akanji enjoyed a top performance last night for City in a position he doesn’t play very often.
The star looked totally comfortable on that left side and his use of the ball last night was just fantastic. He was always looking to break the lines, and he actually provided an attacking threat too.
His shot from distance in the first-half would have been some goal had it not been for some great goalkeeping by Mark Flekken, and he also put in a couple of teasing balls.
Pep Guardiola has two solid options for that left side in Josko Gvardiol and Nathan Ake, but it’s good to know Akanji can slot in seamlessly.
