Aleks Zinchenko says Fernandinho's return to the starting line up for Manchester City in their decisive Champions League fixture gave the rotated side a boost.
City, needing a point to pip Porto to the top of Group C, got the draw they needed to ensure they cannot be overtaken in next week's final round of group games.
Pep Guardiola made seven changes to his side, including the return of both Zinchenko and Fernandinho. For the captain, it was his first start since September after suffering an injury in the closing stages of the home game against Porto.
According to defender Zinchenko, the captain's return to fitness gives the squad a boost on and off the field.
"Fernandinho's a legend, a life legend. This guy is so important," he told City.
"When I first came to the Club he helped me with a lot of things, inside, outside. Even now he gives us all a lot of advice on the pitch, in the dressing room. He's our leader - it's very important to have this type of player."
Regarding the Porto draw, Zinchenko felt that City had the better chances to win the game, but was pleased with City's general performance.
He said: "Obviously, we knew they play very well. They organise defensively very well, and it was so hard to find space in front, it was too narrow. We couldn't find the real space. We still had a lot of chances to score.
"We knew they play with desire, with aggressive stuff - we also were ready. Maybe we didn't play like we are every day. Honestly, it's the Champions League and every team is so, so strong!"
"Yes of course, it's always a great feeling to come first. Lets see what's going to happen in the future. I think we are ready!"
