Brahim Diaz was the difference for Manchester City as the u23s picked up all three points against Division One leaders Everton, moving level with the Toffees at the top of the Premier League 2 table.

After a goalless first-half, substitute Thierry Ambrose put City ahead minutes after the hour mark, Diaz with the assist. The 18-year-old went from creator to scorer minutes later after doubling the Sky Blues’ advantage with his seventh goal of the season.

And with under 15 minutes to go, Manchester City put the game beyond doubt when Jadon Sancho made it 3-0, incidentally his third of the season. Aaron Nemane grabbing the assist, also his third of the campaign. Sancho came off minutes later for Lukas Nmecha with the game all but wrapped up.

Before the match at the Academy Stadium, Everton were three points clear of Manchester City in the Division One table. But now the win sees Simon Davies’ side on an even keel with their title rivals, behind Everton only on goal difference.

City came into Friday’s Premier League 2 meeting off the back of fine form, boasting three wins and two draws from their last five games in all competitions. Everton had suffered two defeats in three, and such vulnerability showed.