But the Blues' gritty fightback was essential for Maresca after a turbulent week that raised questions about the Italian's long-term future with the club.

The striker had recovered from testicular cancer just a few months before the premier African football tournament kicked off.

The 27-year-old left the field in tears that night, clearly fearing for his chances of featuring at the Cup of Nations.

Suryakumar acknowledged that his "rough patch" had been going on for too long.