In order to fulfill his responsibilities as captain, Kyle Walker felt he had to push himself back into the Manchester City squad against Bournemouth.
Walker, 33, had only practiced for a few minutes on Friday before the team left for the south coast, and he had missed the previous four Blues games. Walker offered to join many of his colleagues who were also dealing with health issues but gave it their best, despite the club’s injury crisis and Pep Guardiola’s insistence that his players play through the agony.
Unfortunately, City was unable to capitalize on Arsenal’s midday loss to Newcastle, and they suffered their first league loss in eleven months. Walker believed he had to show that mentality against Bournemouth, though, since Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku are also returning, and the team is heading to Lisbon determined not to let injuries be an excuse.
His words, “We have to be ready,” “I felt the best I could. Although that is not an excuse, there are instances when the captain must take command when I may have had a little more time.
“I was there for the guys, and I want to give everyone out there all the credit they deserve. They were playing with hits, kicks, bruises, and pulls, and that only goes to show how determined they are to achieve what they want for the club or the badge.
“There is a schedule, therefore we must continue. For God knows how long, it is a hectic routine that occurs every three days. That is just the current state of football.
“We remain together even more; as captain, it is my primary responsibility to ensure that I inspire the troops and that we all remain united. Both the injured and the bench players should support the players on the field and be prepared to step up and contribute when you are on the bench.