Manchester City 4-0 Crystal Palace - Fabian Delph Stands Out

Fabian Delph got a rare start for Manchester City in Saturday's 4-0 win over Crystal Palace at the Etihad. Manager Manuel Pellegrini shifted to a 4-4-2 formation from the 4-2-3-1 the Blues have typically played this season and that formation which required more dynamic central midfield play allowed Delph to slot in for Yaya Toure. The England International stood out in the match and scored the Blues opening goal.

Delph reflected on his performance:

"Yeah, it was a good performance. We attacked from the off and I think it was important to start like we did.

"We got the three points today and we are happy. I got the stadium man of the match award, but in my opinion there were five, six, seven or eight top performances out there.

"Sergio is unbelievable and all the boys put in a great shift. I think Kevin De Bruyne played well and even though he didn't get on the score-sheet today, his work out there and his desire to run and to get around the pitch was fantastic.

"We needed the three points after drawing with Everton in midweek and the boys have been terrific so we're happy."

"It's always great to get to play. We have a fantastic squad so we are able to rotate and it was my turn today to go in.

"I think I needed to put in a good performance to help the team and thankfully, I've done that."

With Fernandinho injured and the games coming quickly, Manuel Pellegrini will be depending on Delph who has had a start-stop season  due injuries will play a key role going forward. The possibility of playing a 4-4-2 where Yaya Toure's lack of running creates limitations in central midfield may also yield more opportunities for Delph.