Manchester City extended their unbeaten run in all competitions to nine games with a 2-0 win against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
A goal in each half was enough to secure the three points as Sergio Aguero and Leroy Sane grabbed the goals in the North East.
Pep Guardiola made five changes from the midweek victory against Huddersfield with Willy Caballero, Yaya Toure, David Silva, Aleks Kolarov and Bacary Sagna all returning to the starting XI.
Aguero grabbed the all-important opener just before half time and then Sane sealed the victory in the 58th minute with a low strike that went in off the post.
The win moves City back up to third place and closes the gap on leaders Chelsea, who play on Monday against West Ham.