Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says Fernandinho will rise to the challenge as City gear up for a crucial run of games over the next fortnight.
After sitting out our Carabao Cup semi-final second leg clash away at Burton last Wednesday, the Brazilian midfielder returned to the fold for last Saturday’s FA Cup fourth round clash with Burnley where he delivered a masterful display.
With City now facing a punishing run of five games in 12 days, the Brazilian is likely to be a key figure again.
And speaking at his Monday press conference ahead of tomorrow’s league trip to Newcastle, the City manager said the midfield enforcer was physically and mentally ready for the exertions ahead.
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“Ferna has had rest a little bit and he is 34-years-old, sometimes he needs the rhythm. He can’t stop too much,” said Pep.
“One of strong points Burnley has is the long ball. In these kind of games Fernandinho is so important.
“In the last game– (Raheem) Sterling, (Leroy) Sane and David Silva didn’t play. Of course I look at the games and who we are playing, the way they play the type of game we are going to face, and I make the decisions.
“Ferna is strong. I think he feels good right now.He helps our centre-backs a lot.”
Click on the video above to watch Pep’s press conference in full…
