Man City player ratings: Sergio Aguero the saviour; Raheem Sterling, Gabriel Jesus struggle at Sheffield United

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Manchester City needed to call on Sergio Aguero to see off a spirited Sheffield United side 1-0 as Aymeric Laporte made his long-awaited return to action at Bramall Lane.

Pep Guardiola was full of praise for the Blades in the build up to the match and on Tuesday night it was clear to see why.

Chris Wilder's side went toe-to-toe with the reigning Premier League champions for much of the match, even if they needed Dean Henderson to keep them in it on occasions.

The on-loan Manchester United goalkeeper saved a 36th-minute penalty from Gabriel Jesus and saved well to deny Raheem Sterling and Nicolas Otamendi, before substitute Aguero scored in the 73rd minute to give City victory.

James Robson was at Bramall Lane to run the rule over City's players...

Didn’t face too many genuine goal-scoring opportunities – but did well to deflect Basham’s cross-shot in the second half.

Operating as a wing back, but didn’t offer enough as an attacking threat.

Crucial interception to deny McBurnie early on and his header was narrowly wide in the second half. Pressed high to support City as they looked for a breakthrough.

Nicolas Otamendi: 6

Might have scored a wonder goal with his bicycle kick. Got over a shaky start as City reduced Sheffield United to few chances.

Aymeric Laporte: 6

The most important point is that he made it through after so long out with a knee injury. Stood up to some physical tussles well.

Guardiola will have wanted more from him out wide as City struggled to create chances from central areas.

Calm and efficient use of the ball, but frustrated by the home side’s very effective block.

Strange night for De Bruyne, who struggled to find his range of passing. But his cross for Aguero’s goal was simply perfection.

City’s stand out player for much of the match. Won a penalty and set up Sterling with a glorious chance in a first half that the visitors out of sight.

Gabriel Jesus: 5

Worked hard, but found little space. Two golden chances – missing from the penalty spot in the first half and then only managing a tame header from close range after the break.

Raheem Sterling: 5

Should have given City the lead from close range, but denied by Henderson. Generally struggled to hurt Sheffield United and showing signs of fatigue.

Subs

Sergio Aguero (for Jesus, 67'): 7

AFP via Getty Images

What an impact. With virtually his first touch of the game he tapped in City’s winner.

What a player.

Eric Garcia (for Laporte, 78'): 5

Barely troubled when coming on late 5

Bernardo (for Sterling, 90+1)

Too late to mark,

Not used: Bravo, Gundogan, Cancelo, Foden

Additional reporting by PA.

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