Manchester City U18 coach Carlos Vicens praised his senior players for their performance in the FA Youth Cup semifinal defeat of Blackburn Rovers.

Vicens was able to call on the services of Liam Delap, Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Cole Palmer for the last four clash, all of whom have played first team football this season.

All three impressed against Blackburn and their manager said they were all keen to be involved in the semi-final, despite having been rewarded with chances at senior level.

“They were excited about this opportunity," he said. "Being in a Youth Cup final is an unbelievable achievement for these players.

"They were really sad at the end of last season when we went into lockdown and they were so close to being in the final.

“[It was] great news from the FA to finalise the competition and they were super excited and motivated. In terms of motivation there is no job to do there.

“Taylor played a big role today, not just as a centre-back, as a leader for this team. His leadership was massive at the back."