Rico Lewis has made only four appearances in all competitions this season. On this evidence, that number looks a little low.
The right-back/midfielder delivered a timely reminder of what he offers Enzo Maresca's side, grabbing two assists in Manchester City's 5-1 win over AEK Athens at the Etihad Stadium. It was a performance that showcased the qualities that once made him a midfielder in City's academy system — and which now make him such a natural fit in the inverted full-back role.
City were already in control by the time Lewis began to leave his mark. Elliot Anderson opened the scoring in the 12th minute, and from that point there was only one winner. Marko Nikolic's AEK side pushed numbers forward, especially early, but that played into City's hands.
Lewis set up Phil Foden's opening goal in the 34th minute with a clever ball after making a superb run inside of Foden to receive the ball from the England international. It was the kind of incisive movement that has become his trademark.
He then picked out Foden with a quality ball to help City take a 2-0 lead, before setting up Foden's second of the night after another bursting run into the AEK penalty area. His sublime first-time lay-off teed up Foden to finish spectacularly.
To cap off his night, Lewis's clever through ball down the right set Ryan McAidoo free behind the AEK defence to set up Foden to complete his hat-trick.
It was a display that underlined exactly what Lewis adds to this City team. The England international may have found minutes hard to come by so far this season, but performances like this serve as a reminder of his quality. For Maresca, it is a welcome selection headache.