'Simple truth' - Alan Shearer explains where Newcastle United went wrong against Man City

Alan Shearer conceded that Manchester City are simply a “much better team” after Newcastle United were dumped out of the FA Cup.

A first-half brace from Bernardo Silva - with both goals coming from deflected efforts - was enough to put the Magpies to the sword. An 8,000-strong Geordie contingent roared their side on but were ultimately left with more cup heartbreak on a rain-soaked night at the Etihad.

Few expected Newcastle to cause an upset given the might of Man City. Pep Guardiola’s men are chasing back-to-back trebles - an unprecedented feat in world football. The gulf between the two sides was on show as City coasted to a routine win.

Speaking to the BBC post-match, Newcastle legend Shearer insisted the “simple truth” is how Guardiola’s side are better than the Magpies all over the pitch. He said: “It was decided by two lucky goals! They were much the better team.

“I think the simple truth is they are better than Newcastle in every position. That’s where Newcastle want to get to, that’s the standard. They tried, (I have) no problem with the attitude. They just lacked that bit of quality in terms of the opposition they were against.”

Shay Given, who played for both clubs, agreed, highlighting how City controlled the game from start to finish. He added: “There was so much control from Man City. We talked about Coventry having a brilliant game down at Wolves, fairytales of the FA Cup, but there was no fairytale here.

“Man City were the better team and had so much control of the game. It was very difficult for Newcastle. There were a few half-chances.

“Isak in the first half and another in the second but you have to take those chances when they come. They weren't good enough today.”