Man City player ratings vs Everton as Nathan Ake and Phil Foden star

Manchester City were made to work hard for a 3-1 win over Everton at Goodison Park that moves them back into the top four.

The Premier League champions had slipped down the table as a result of one win from their last six matches coupled with an absence while they were in Saudi Arabia to win the Club World Cup. However, the Blues are now five points off leaders Liverpool with a game in hand ahead of their home game with Sheffield United to round off the year.

It hadn't gone to plan for the world champions in the first half as Jack Harrison gave the home side the lead against the run of play. City rallied though despite injury to John Stones, and goals from Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva and Julian Alvarez ensured the win.

Ederson: Made an important save from Harrison at 1-0 down and showed his trademark coolness with the ball at his feet. 7

Walker: Never a good sign when Walker is the free man in attack but he took up good positions and defended well in the second half. 7

Stones: A wretched season with injuries continues, made worse by the fact he shouldn't have had to make the challenge because it was offside. 6

Akanji: Awful in the first half blasting passes all over the place, but improved considerably stepping up into midfield after the break. 6

Ake: City's best defender again, composed under pressure and helping to keep City calm. Also won the penalty for the second goal. 8

Rodri: Seen as a victory that he started, yet he looked a yard off the pace and struggled for much of the evening. 5

Nunes: More promise linking play between the lines, although should have done better with a clear first-half chance. 6

Foden: Stepped up in the second half to lead the team, as well as scoring an important goal. 8

Silva: Some poor