They were able to get through a difficult night with one goal in each half, one of which was a clinical finish and the other of which was heavily deflected beyond the Bristol City goalie by one of his own players.

Foden will be able to look back with confidence knowing that he is once again becoming the heartbeat of a squad pursuing three trophies at the conclusion of the season, while manager Pep Guardiola may exhale in relief.

Well, in the 81st minute, skipper Kevin de Bruyne brilliantly added a third.

The Belgian, though, had missed a number of fine opportunities before that, and it wasn’t until Foden had given them a two-goal lead that he felt secure enough to bend one in so beautifully from 25 yards.