Manchester City midfielder Tommy Doyle made his FA Cup debut at the weekend during the victory over Port Vale. Pep Guardiola’s side overcame the League Two side at the Etihad, securing their place in the fourth round of this season’s competition and the supporters were given a glimpse into their future with youngsters Taylor Harwood-Bellis and the aforementioned Doyle impressing.
Doyle replaced Ilkay Gundogan after 77 minutes but despite it being just a brief cameo, the fans were pleased by one of the 18-year-old’s skills in particular.
After the teenager took to Twitter to share his delight after his latest first-team appearance, many of the Man City faithful flocked to the post to share their immediate responses to his showing.
Have you grown frustrated by the quality of corners at the Etihad?
Yes
No
A great team effort but our young guns were amazing……and someone who can take a corner a HUUUUUUGE bonus ??
— TheSheikhsBillions ? (@SheikhZammo) January 4, 2020
Well played and the corner you took was the best one I’ve seen at City in about 6 years. Admittedly the bar is quite low though. ?
— Rick C (@Tricky_005) January 4, 2020
Congratulations Tommy. You played really well ?
— Linda Ellis (@Lanaqu28) January 4, 2020
You played well tonight lad it’s great to see some of our brilliant younger players getting a game
— Brian Booth (@BrianBo54982288) January 4, 2020
Well done Tommy. ???
— pamela yaya collier (@pam0910) January 4, 2020
Top Quality Cameo bud, well done Tommy??
Taylor was Class.— BLUEOPTIMIST (@Our13thMan) January 5, 2020
What do we think?
The quality of delivery from corner-kicks has clearly been an issue in the eyes of the supporters and so Doyle’s competence in that particular area appears to have done his reputation the world of good.
When you consider the technical ability of the squad as a whole, it’s difficult to understand why that has been such a significant problem however, in this instance, its worked in the favour of the young man – giving him the opportunity to shine.
Pep Guardiola’s willingness to give these players opportunities regardless of the immense pressure he is under to deliver silverware perhaps evidences that he has the future in mind and that he’s not considering leaving Manchester City this summer – contrary to recent reports.
Doyle is yet to make a Premier League appearance but an FA Cup appearance is another step towards that. The future certainly looks bright at the Etihad.