Manchester City’s plight in the Premier League means the double Treble is unrealistic but their quest to become the only club to win both domestic Cups in successive seasons continues. Port Vale were duly defeated, even if a side 75 places below City in the league ladder acquitted themselves rather better than some more illustrious visitors to the Etihad Stadium. Watford conceded eight goals here in the Premier League, Atalanta five in the Champions League. Vale let in only four and could savour the sight of their talisman, Tom Pope, finding the City net.A starting XI assembled at a cost of nothing helped bank some £300,000 and reputations were enhanced. Oleksandr Zinchenko, Sergio Agüero, Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Phil Foden nonetheless ensured the favourites progressed. Related: Wolves force FA Cup replay against flat Manchester United after goalless draw Related: Paul Mullin seals stunning comeback draw for Tranmere at Watford Continue readingreadfullarticle
