Guardiola beams over 'nice guy' Yaya Toure's 2-goal display
All is forgotten. All is forgiven.
After being frozen out of Pep Guardiola's team over a host of critical comments made by his agent, Dimitri Seluk, veteran midfielder Yaya Toure was presented a rare opportunity on Saturday.
The Ivorian, 33, was handed the start against Crystal Palace, and responded by netting both Manchester City goals in a vital 2-1 away win.
Related: Toure returns to City lineup after 3-month hiatus, scores brace in win
Following the contest, an ebullient Guardiola beamed when discussing Toure's success upon his return to Premier League action.
"I'm so happy for Yaya Toure because he's a really nice guy," Guardiola told reporters, as quoted by ESPN FC. "His weight is perfect now and there are no doubts about his quality.
"His personality and his quality are there to see - he can play many positions. I'm so happy for him and his family. We now have one more man that can help us achieve our targets this season.
"The last two months he was amazing in the training sessions. He's behaviour was absolutely perfect. His teammates love him. He's another guy who will help us with the rotation in the team."
Toure, who previously hadn't started a league match all season and had just one appearance under his belt on the campaign - that coming three months ago in a Champions League qualifier - was overjoyed with his contribution.
"I was delighted to play, it was difficult for me," Toure said. "I am very happy to be playing football, my teammates are very important to me. They have always been brilliant with me, always supportive. I always want to be there to help them.
"I am professional, I always want to improve my game. I was prepared mentally and I knew that one day my manager would need me. You must always stay professional. I have been lucky.
"Today was very tough. We know what we have to do to win this league, sometimes you have to fight."
Toure's two-goal renaissance pushed Manchester City level with Liverpool atop the Premier League table on 27 points, though Chelsea can move a point clear of both with a win on Sunday.