Injury ‘rocked’ Jesus, admits Fernandinho
GABRIEL Jesus made his long-awaited return in the derby and Fernandinho admits his absence ‘rocked’ City.
The 20-year-old fractured his metatarsal in the win against Bournemouth in February.
It was a cruel blow for the Brazilian - who had made a stunning start to his career at the Etihad.
Although Jesus was denied a fairytale comeback against United when his late goal was disallowed, Fernandinho was just delighted to have his compatriot back.
“He really wanted to play and I’m very happy for him because of the injury at the very beginning of his time here at City,” he said.
“It kind of rocked him a bit and the rest of the players. But after two months he’s coming back and he’s able to play.
“And once again he was able to shine and score a goal. Unfortunately it was offside, but it’s still important because strikers need to score, so at least it helps his confidence.”
City had 69 percent possession against United and limited the visitors to just one shot on target, but could not find the breakthrough. A win would have put Pep Guardiola’s side four points clear in fourth place and Fernandinho sees it as a missed opportunity.
“A win would have been ideal, so we could increase the distance to a direct rival,” he said. “We tried from the beginning, we were looking for the goal.
“We created a few chances but we weren’t efficient enough to get the goal and the win. They defended quite well and, unfortunately, it stayed 0-0.”
City are now a point off third-placed Liverpool, with a game in hand, and have a favourable run-in against Middlesbrough, Crystal Palace, Leicester, West Brom and Watford.