His efforts stood out, winning him the man of the match award.

In the 23rd minute Benarbia weaved his way into the box and fed Paulo Wanchope whose effort hit the upright before rebounding into the path of Shaun Goater to score.

Seconds later the former Paris Saint Germain star was involved again in a move which resulted in a goal from Richard Dunne.

Keegan admitted he was pinching himself, having picked up the 32-year-old former French player of the year from Paris St Germain on a free transfer.

Benarbia has won three French titles in a career which has also seen him play for top teams Bordeaux and Monaco.

Keegan said: "He is the odd bargain player to be had and I am still pinching myself that we have got him for free".

"He talks with a football and I don't think City fans in the last 20 or 30 years have seen many players like him".