Scott Carson has reacted to making his Manchester City debut in an eventful win at Newcastle, saying he forgot what it was like to play a game of football.
It's been two years since Carson last played a senior game, for parent club Derby in 2019, but he has played an important role at City in his two season-long loan spells and has become a valuable member of Pep Guardiola's squad. This was also his first Premier League game in ten years since his time at West Brom.
With the Premier League wrapped up this week and a Champions League final to prepare for, Carson was given a belated City debut at Newcastle, where he was in the thick of the action from the start.
After conceding to an Emil Krafth header, Carson then faced a Joelinton penalty which was brilliantly hit and unstoppable for the City man. Soon after half time, Carson had a second penalty to deal with, this time saving Joe Willock's effort, but he pushed the ball back into the Arsenal loanee's path to score the rebound.
With City running out 4-3 winners, it was a good return to action for the 35-year-old, as he reflected on an unexpected start.
"I enjoyed every minute of being back out there," he told BBC Sport.
"I am glad we won at the end of the day. At one point I think I forgot what it felt like to actually play a game. Unfortunately no fans and my family couldn't come but another proud moment in my career. Three points were the most important thing, it wasn't about me."
With City sealing the title with three games to spare, giving Carson his opportunity, the loanee was asked if he would get a first Premier League winner's medal on the back of his appearance.
He replied: "I am not sure, if I get offered one I won't turn it down but I've a role to play here. I just want to keep supporting the lads as best I can."
Carson now turns his attention to helping City prepare for a Champions League final, where he can use his experience as the only player in the squad to have won the competition - with Liverpool in 2005.
