Michael Owen raves about ‘absolutely perfect’ Manchester City star in win over Everton

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Michael Owen has told Amazon Prime’s coverage of Manchester City’s 3-1 win over Everton that Riyad Mahrez’s goal was “absolutely perfect” in terms of technique, as the winger cut inside to put City ahead in the second half.

The two teams were deadlocked at half-time, after Phil Foden’s deflected effort was cancelled out moments later by Richarlison. It was just the 15th goal of the season conceded by City, with John Stones rested on the bench.

But Mahrez put City ahead for the second time just after the hour mark, combining superbly with Bernardo Silva before curling a gorgeous left-footed effort into the far corner – kissing Jordan Pickford’s post as it went in.

It was three after 72 minutes when Silva himself fainted to shoot before planting a left-footed effort that Pickford got a hand to – securing three points on Merseyside. Liverpool icon Owen praised on Algeria international Mahrez.

“I don’t how you defend this,” Owen said. “You can’t really pick his run up, it is virtually impossible to defend against. The finish is inch-perfect, absolutely perfect. On his left foot, 18 yards out, you don’t expect anything else.”

TBR’s view – Mahrez display a reminder to Guardiola

The £120,000-a-week midfielder (Spotrac) has started just four of Manchester Cit’s last eight Premier League matches – largely thanks to the form of Foden, which has seen him combine with Raheem Sterling and Jesus.

An injury to Ilkay Gundogan saw Foden drop into midfield and allowed Mahrez to come in, but with Kevin De Bruyne fit again – it is likely Mahrez will be axed once again when Guardiola’s side take on Arsenal on Sunday.

However, Mahrez’s performance was exceptional and it will be a reminder to Guardiola of what he is capable of.