Walker scores in homecoming at Sheffield United to give Manchester City victory

Manchester City beat Sheffield United 1-0 at Bramall Lane on Saturday, with Kyle Walker scoring against his boyhood club.

The victory helped the former champions to extend the home side’s winless start to the English Premier League (EPL) season to seven games.

Walker, who was raised in Sheffield and came through the Blades’ youth system, marked his 100th league appearance for Manchester City with a first half goal and refused to celebrate.

The 30-year-old full-back collected the ball outside the penalty box and let loose an angled low drive into the bottom corner.

The ball skidded across the wet turf and beat the outstretched hand of Blades goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.

“I’m happy to get on the scoresheet…Sheffield United are well drilled and it’s a tough team to come and break down. But luckily I came up with a goal, through the bodies,” Walker told reporters.

“My mum and dad live here. So, if I celebrated I’d probably get a lot of stick. I’m a Sheffield United fan. So, I couldn’t.”

Ferran Torres, leading the Manchester City striking line in the absence of Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus, had the opportunity to double the lead from long range.

This was when Ramsdale came racing off his line.

But his effort was hit straight at the goalkeeper.

However, in spite of their domination, Manchester City could not make their numerous chances count.

Sheffield United nearly levelled in the 70th minute when Sander Berge shrugged off two defenders in a mazy run to the byline before a pull-back into the penalty box.

But John Lundstram fired his shot over the crossbar.

The result moved Manchester City up to seventh in the standings, two points behind league leaders Everton, while Sheffield United languish in 19th with just one point.

“We played very well. We struggled for goals, given the chances we created,” Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said.

“They had one clear chance, no more than that. It was our third game away in seven days, so we are in a better position now, two games before an international break.”