The pace and intensity of City’s front three was so impressive, so ferocious, that this time they looked a step ahead of Liverpool’s equivalent.

Manchester City’s new role as football’s great entertainers could be the unique selling points and key identifier which delivers not only success on the field but also an opportunity to challenge the global profile of Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Barcelona.

Everton defender John Stones has handed in a transfer request in an attempt to force through a move to Chelsea.

Stoke 1 Everton 1