Manchester City stars Erling Haaland and Kevin de Bruyne were surprisingly dropped to the bench for Wednesday's home clash with Aston Villa.
Top scorer Haaland had been branded a 'League Two player' after his lacklustre display in Sunday's goalless home draw with Arsenal.
Belgian playmaker De Bruyne has also been below his best in recent weeks.
Jack Grealish and Jeremy Doku replaced them in the starting line-up at the Etihad.
The move was described as a 'massive call' by City boss Pep Guardiola.