JEREMY DOKU completed an unforgettable derby day by heading straight off from the Etihad to get baptised.
The Belgian winger turned in a dazzling display as City took the derby honours with a 3-0 win over Ruben Amorim’s United.
GettyJeremy Doku got baptised after the Manchester derby win[/caption]
He set up the first two goals for Phil Foden and Erling Haaland and caused a headache for the Red Devils all afternoon.
And afterwards he revealed the thought of reaffirming his commitment to Jesus and being cleansed of his sins had inspired him.
Before heading off to church, he said: “If I can be honest, this was for me already a victory.
“Why? Because I knew that after the game I’m going to be baptised.
“Maybe that’s why I felt like I was pushed. That’s why I’m very happy with the performance as well.”
Doku, 23, has spoken before about how his strong faith is pivotal to his life.
And yesterday he said: “Of course, that’s the centre of my life. There’s nothing more important to me than faith.
“As a Christian, when you get baptised, your old nature, your old sinful nature dies, and you start living with God.
“You resurrect with God, with Jesus Christ.”
Many people are baptised by their families when they are very young but Doku feels it means more as an adult.
He added: “You can do that as a kid but normally it’s meant for when you’re older and you really realise what you’re doing, so that’s what I’m going to do.
“I was already excited before the game because I knew that this is a victory day.”
Pep Guardiola is trying to resurrect City’s season after back-to-back defeats last month – but there were positive signs against United.
Doku looks likely to play a key role this term but says it will take time to get used to a new era at the Etihad.
He said: “I think every season is different. Different players, different style.
“I think also the opponents are different against us. They play more man-to-man sometimes. Previously, they were more laid back.
‘TODAY WAS A GOOD DAY’
“But I feel like the players are adapting, the new players are adapting. We are starting to understand the way of playing with each other.
“Sometimes you need time. Today was a good day so I’m happy with that.”
Next up is a Champions League opener against Napoli on Thursday – which will see an immediate return to the Etihad for a certain Kevin De Bruyne.
Doku has played alongside him for Belgium in recent days and is now looking forward to going up against the club legend.
He said: “It’s exciting because a week ago I played with him and now I’m going to play against him.
“I’m very sure that he’s going to be happy to come back home and play against us.
“But obviously we’re going to try to win the game for sure.”
GettyDoku faces Belgian pal Kevin De Bruyne in the Champions League[/caption] Creator – [#item_custom_dc:creator]
