"Ruben is back," declared Pep Guardiola after Manchester City safely booked their place in the FA Cup quarter finals. "Manu is outstanding, Nathan all season has been top. Kevin is back... in the second half was the Kevin we know."
Asked if he had all of his best players returning to form, Guardiola listed nine players who impressed him at Ashton Gate, after praising two others immediately before. For the first time this season, Guardiola is heading for a fully-fit squad, with multiple options in every position.
And after making a concerted effort to thank City's travelling fans after their two long trips to Bournemouth and Bristol this week, after hugging every one of his players individually on the pitch. Guardiola is conducting a happy camp again - although there are no more happy flowers.
