Jack Grealish was ready to take his shirt off as he reeled away in celebration - before remembering just in time that he was already on a yellow card.
The Manchester City star scored his side's crucial second goal, which put them back in front in the second-half as they saw off Arsenal. The champions went on to secure a 3-1 win at the Emirates, with their success sending them to the top of the Premier League.
Grealish, who has remained a starter under Pep Guardiola this term, was able to drift in off the left wing and finish past Aaron Ramsdale after 72 minutes. The away fans were close by and as the players rushed over Grealish was ready to take his shirt off - but made a crucial last minute call.
He confessed to Amazon Prime Video : "I actually was going to take my shirt off but then I realised I was on a yellow card, so it is a good thing I didn't."
City's £100m man knew the importance of picking up three points in north London, which gives the champions huge momentum, but felt as if they were second best. He said: "You know you get them games where you just speak amongst yourselves, everyone seemed so concentrated on the game, and even myself all day, I wasn’t nervous.
"I was just in the mood and staying off my phone, and I thought ye we have to win today really, that’s what I was thinking. Luckily we did, if I’m being honest I don’t think we actually played that well, I thought Arsenal played a lot better than us, I thought they were the better team."
Grealish scored in the recent Manchester derby defeat at Old Trafford having long admitted he wants to be a greater influence in the big games. His strike at the Emirates is another example of the winger affecting the game - and he was happy his strike ended up in the three points.
"Honestly it was massive. For me it was a great night, that’s what I’ve wanted to do," he added. "Especially recently you know I’ve been playing well but I want to come and affect these big games. Last month I obviously scored at Old Trafford and I thought ‘ah, buzzing, I’m gonna get the winner here,’ then we go and concede two and it didn’t really mean anything, the goal. To score that one tonight was so important and honestly man, I’m absolutely buzzing for myself and the team."
City are now top courtesy of their superior goal difference, but Arsenal do have a game in hand and can reclaim top spot. The two title protagonists will next meet at the Etihad in April.
