Pep Lijnders praises Academy stars after Manchester City thrash Exeter in the FA Cup

City opted for an interesting starting side with a blend of youth and experience with Rodri and Erling Haaland leading the spine of the home side.

Three Academy products managed to find their names on the scoresheet on Saturday, with Lijnders acknowledging the young stars contribution to the emphatic victory.

"It's down to the players," said Lijnders after the match to the City website.

"When you see the example today, how many young players from the Academy and you see the fire in their heart and how they want to represent this club.

"Everyone speaks about Ryan McAidoo, the goal he scored, a special day, and goes to his dad and all these things but his pressing was insane."

The Dutch assistant coach was also left impressed with the way the players worked well together during the match despite not playing together often beyond training.

âœIt was Erling [Haaland] going, Divine [Mukasa] going, Rico [Lewis] going, we had how many boys from the Academy,❠added Lijnders.

"That's a good sign from the club and the boys give energy."

The Citizens will travel to face Newcastle United next in their Carabao Cup semi-final first Leg on Tuesday.

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