The Robins’ manager, Lee Johnson, revealed the Manchester City boss was impressed with his team and the Belgian midfielder has added his name to the list of those who enjoyed the Championship side’s approach.
Sunday’s showdown with Liverpool, felt the Blues were good value for their win but was keen to acknowledge the challenge posed by the visitors.
“They played good,” he said. “They came here to play and that was nice. I don’t think they had a lot of chances but they created some problems in the first half.
“I think we kept on playing and in the end, I think we deserved to win it.
“I think we had enough chances to score more goals. In the second half we played really well to put pressure on.
“They tried to keep it 1-1 because it’s a great score but even the 2-1 they will be happy with. But obviously it is nice to go with a one-goal advantage.”
Aguero’s goal-scoring record through the years, captain KDB and late drama: Talking Points
City were indebted to substitute Sergio Aguero, who nodded in a late winner after De Bruyne, captain for the evening, had crashed home an equaliser.
It was every inch a skipper’s performance from the playmaker, who turned in yet another impressive showing, though he admits he’s keen to take control of games whether wearing the armband or not.
“I always try to play the same,” added the 26-year-old. “I don’t think it changes that much.
“Everybody has to take their responsibility on the field.
“We see it is more of a sign of trust but I try to do the things I do good and tried to change the game in the second half.”
After a hectic festive period - 12 games since the start of December - City can now enjoy somewhat of a break, with five days before facing Liverpool.
It’s a welcome rest for De Bruyne and his team-mates, who journey down the East Lancs Road looking for a first league win on Merseyside since 2003.
A typical pre-match talking point, the midfielder is unequivocal that it’s a meaningless stat for the current crop of City stars.
“We don’t care about that (Anfield record),” he declared. “It is just the way football goes.
“Even with our unbeaten run, we go there to win the game.
“They will have a very strong team. They want to be there for the Champions League. We just try to do the things we do good and then we will see what happens.
“We have five days’ rest now, that will be good. It will be nice to have five days and then almost a week before Newcastle to get a little bit of recovery.”
