Celebrating his 29th birthday, De Bruyne was deployed in a deeper lying role against the Magpies but again proved a dominant figure in the game, capping a wonderful individual display with a 37th minute penalty.
And, as he reflected on a fine all-round team performance at St James’ Park which earned us a semi-final place against Arsenal, De Bruyne said he was happy to help the Club in any way he can.
“I just do my job for the team. (The role) Doesn’t really matter, in my career, I’ve played lots of positions,” De Bruyne insisted.
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“The coach asked me to do something different. We can also play with five at the back
“We have enough good players up-front to make the difference
“It’s my job to help the team and get them in good positions.”
It was the latest successful spot kick conversion by De Bruyne following his elevation to the role in our Champions League last 16 first leg win at Real Madrid in February.
And the Belgian said he was more than happy to be entrusted with the role.
“We had a few problems this year (with penalties) and the gaffer asked me to step up against Real Madrid,” the midfielder added.
“I’ve scored a couple now. If I’m the taker, I’ll try
“There will be a day when I’ll miss. You have to take responsibility but its good.”
The FA Cup holders’ victory was out 10th straight win in the competition and the perfect response after our Premier League loss at Chelsea last Thursday.
And De Bruyne said he and his colleagues were determined to try and maintain the highest possible standards in the new scenario of games behind closed doors.
“We know it’s weird (playing behind closed doors) and it’s not something i enjoy but on the other hand, we’re professionals, we have to keep going, and we knew after loss at Chelsea, we’d want to respond in good way,” De Bruyne continued.
“We should have scored more but played really well and created enough chances to score a lot of goals.
“I think we put them under pressure, didn’t give anything away apart from one chance in the second half
“We’re happy to be in the semi-final at Wembley and hopefully we’ll play a good game.”
