Two superb second half strikes from Erling Haaland helped deliver a 10th successive win for Manchester City over a stubborn Everton and propel Pep Guardiola’s men back to the top of the Premier League table.

For more than 70 minutes the Toffees had proved obdurate opponents with City searching in vain for a breakthrough.

But with 19 minutes left, Haaland – as so often – made the all-important difference, rifling home a stunning shot for what was his first goal since late November.

And five minutes from time the big man struck once again after being put through clean on goal by substitute Kevin De Bruyne to further reinforce his importance to the City cause. It was no less that City deserved, even though Everton had made life difficult for us on an afternoon when patience and composure were key.

But, in the manner befitting the reigning champions, thanks to our Norwegian super striker we found a way to navigate the visitors’ road block and so maintain a sense of momentum and go top… for a few hours at least with Liverpool not in action until later this afternoon.