Pep Guardiola said several weeks ago that he felt Sergio Aguero had
a big role still to play in Manchester City's chase for honours this season.
But Blues fans have become increasingly saddened at the prospect of
the legendary striker's career fizzling out, with him watching from the bench
as the rest of the squad writes another glorious chapter in the club's history.
The glimpses we have had of Aguero have vindicated Guardiola's
decision to use him sparingly. But then came Crystal Palace.
After a first half when he appeared reluctant to shoot, and looked
slightly rusty, Aguero flicked a switch after the break - and the old, gold Kun
was back.
One perfect touch on a hammered Ben Mendy pass, and a stunning
finish into the roof of the net showed exactly the ruthlessness that had been
missing in the midweek win at Paris Saint-Germain.
And after that, Aguero fizzed around the final third, creating
chances with his sharp passing and slick movement, playing a key role in Ferran
Torres' killer second goal.
His display in that half may not have made Guardiola re-consider his
starting XI for Tuesday's Champions League semi-final second leg against PSG,
but he is now a very real option off the bench if the manager needs a goal.
And this time, when Guardiola re-stated his belief that the
32-year-old will still play a significant part in the remainder of the season,
it was backed up by Aguero's actions.
