For Joe Hart it has been a season that a sportsman may describe as a leveller. Now comes the chance to remind Manchester United that the champions are not disappearing for good.
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The Manchester City and England goalkeeper says he is not troubled by the criticism of either him or his City team towards the end of what, on the face of it, has been a disappointing season.
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Sometimes, given the edge in his voice, it's hard to believe him.
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Nevertheless, Hart heads into Monday's derby against Barclays Premier League leaders Manchester United with a double-sided aim; to finish this season well then begin the next one rather better.
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'We owe it to our fans to put on a performance,' said Hart. 'We have not given them the highs of last year, but hopefully we can give them a good couple of results and repair a bit of the damage.
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'People will say it's a massive backwards step not winning the league but it's not that. We are still the side to beat and we will come again. We are not a flash in the pan. We have to start well next season after finishing this season well.'
Manchester United is beatable. Chelsea has proven that to the world. Let's see what City would do tonite