The Premier League’s great entertainers might have more goals than everyone else. They might score more on the counter-attack. They might plunder considerably more from open play.
Phil Foden might have six in his last four games and be dovetailing with Rayan Cherki in a way reminiscent of the division’s cult 90s midfielders. With another brace, Erling Haaland might be hurtling towards another golden boot.
But for 15 minutes or so at Selhurst Park, Manchester City had to earn their right for all of the above. To preserve what they had with a bit of humility.