Fernandinho pleased Man City returned to winning ways against Fulham

Captain Fernandinho felt it was important Manchester City got back in the winning groove against Fulham on Saturday.

The Premier League leaders were held to a draw in their previous outing at Southampton a fortnight ago with momentum then further stalled by the competition’s winter break.

They put that behind them as they clicked back into gear by sweeping aside Championship pacesetters Fulham 4-1 at the Etihad Stadium to reach the FA Cup fifth round.

The victory was not entirely straightforward, with the enterprising Cottagers taking a surprise fourth-minute lead, but Pep Guardiola’s men ultimately won comfortably.

“This is the best way to come back after a week off,” said Fernandinho. “Some players got the opportunity to spend some time with our families in different countries, but it is important to come back and get (back) on track, winning.

“For a team like us it is important to win every game and, with the quality players, the manager and the philosophy we have got, show good football as well.

“It is important to keep going, this keeps you motivated to show your quality every three days. It is important now to think about Brentford (on Tuesday) and prepare for the game so well, to try to be as much as possible on top of the league.”

City were stunned when Fulham, scorers of 74 goals in 28 games in the Championship, took a fourth-minute lead through Fabio Carvalho.

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