The 23-year-old winger was facing a four-game suspension following his second booking of the inaugural campaign for a confrontation with Jonny Howson during the midweek loss to Middlesbrough.However, City managed to overturn his dismissal for violent behavior, and Sainz scored an incredible goal from 25 yards out to help David Wagner’s team go back into the play-off spots.
Wagner hailed the Spaniard’s powers of recovery following a turbulent few days.
“He was very sad, angry, more or less everything after the last game. And then 48 hours later he was super, super happy, maybe the most happy person on the planet after myself,” said the City head coach. “Obviously it gave us a massive boost when we got the information before training on Friday.
“You saw how he reacted on the pitch, so focused, so sharp defensively and offensively he always looked like a threat. He is a very important player for us at this stage of the season. 100pc.
“But I think we have seen a few of these so far in the season. And maybe I’ve seen a few more in training as well. But he is capable of moments like this. And hopefully he keeps going.”
Wagner acknowledged that even now, with Sainz’s early departure on Teesside, there is still a feeling of injustice—Norwich was in control of the game and ahead.
“League one: I believe it’s necessary to state that football games are about errors. Additionally, officials can make mistakes and are a part of football games,” he stated. If they do make mistakes, the only thing you can ask is that they be fixed. They have acted in this manner.
