Fernandinho says Manchester City's academy players deserve to play more often for the first team as three youngsters impressed in the Champions League last-16 draw with Sporting.
With Ruben Dias and Nathan Ake injured, Joao Cancelo ill and Kyle Walker suspended, Egan-Riley was drafted in at right-back for the second leg with Sporting as City held a 5-0 lead. And the 19-year-old youth team captain looked at home as he completed the 90 minutes for his Champions League debut on a night where Fernandinho appeared in the competition for the 100th time.
Reflecting on the performance, Fernandinho said: "Important to keep playing good, especially after the game on Sunday vs United. Some players come in, important to get some minutes and keep everyone going in the same direction.
