In isolation, a routine and emphatic FA Cup third-round win for Manchester City against a side from the division below was nothing out of the ordinary, but there was a moment just after half-time that stood out.
Two first-half goals against Huddersfield Town had done little to get the home crowd going. Instead it was the emergence of Kevin de Bruyne from the bench to warm up that got arguably the biggest reaction.
Chants of “oh Kevin de Bruyne” rang out, before the Belgium playmaker was given a standing ovation as he came on to the pitch in the 57th minute, marking his return to action for the first time since injuring his hamstring in the opening Premier League game of the season nearly five months ago.
Since joining from Wolfsburg in 2015 he has been one of the most influential players in the Premier League, and the reaction of the Manchester City fans to his return highlights just how significant a role they believe he will play in the second half of the season.
“Kevin must know how much the people love him,” Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said after his side swept aside Huddersfield 5-0 to progress to the fourth round.
“He’s incredible. Kevin, until he decides to leave or retires, will forever be one of the most beloved players. We are really pleased for him.”
