RAHEEM STERLING scored his first Premier League goal since August as champions Manchester City eased to a 3-0 victory over lackluster Everton on Sunday. Rodri added a stunning second and Bernardo Silva a late third as Pep Guardiola’s side responded to convincing victories by title rivals Chelsea and Liverpool on Saturday with a dominant display of their own. City was without playmaker Kevin De Bruyne following his positive test for coronavirus this week but in his absence the Etihad Stadium was treated to a glimpse of the future with a fine display from teenager Cole Palmer. The highly-rated Palmer looked at ease in a fluid and dominant City side, for whom Sterling also shone. The England forward has endured a frustrating start to the season and his future has been the subject of frequent speculation. The disappointment for him on this occasion that he did not add to his tally, squandering a late chance as City cruised towards the final whistle. There was some acknowledgement of the main footballing news of the day from across the city, with fans singing “Ole’s on the dole” in reference to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s sacking at Manchester United. There was a far louder chant, however, in tribute to Sergio Aguero, the club’s record goalscorer, following reports the now Barcelona striker is poised to announce his retirement following a heart scare. City players were dominant in possession and always in control. It was inevitable opportunities would eventually come their way, and they did so in a glut towards the end of the first half. Palmer slipped Silva in on goal with a fine ball but Jordan Pickford blocked. Ilkay Gundogan’s follow-up header skimmed the bar. Palmer then tested Pickford himself after being allowed to turn and shoot from distance and Sterling also shot at the keeper. Sterling was awarded a penalty after going down under a challenge from Michael Keane on the edge of the area but referee Stuart Attwell reversed his decision after reviewing the incident on the monitor. Sterling soon put that frustration behind him as he latched onto a stunning ball into the box from Joao Cancelo, delicately curled with the outside of the boot, to fire City ahead on 44 minutes.(SD-Agencies) | 