Pep Guardiola says Gabriel Jesus’ off the ball running makes him so valuable as an attacking outlet.
The Brazilian led the line against Aston Villa, winning a tussle he had no right to with the imposing Tyrone Mings, which allowed Raheem Sterling to open the scoring at the Etihad Stadium.
It was the 59th time he has been directly involved in a goal in his 65 starts for the Club and he finished the game on the left of the front three after Sergio Aguero was introduced from the bench.
It was a move that gave City additional firepower and Guardiola believes Jesus’ movement allows him to make a contribution from a number of positions.
“Gabriel and Sergio can play together, depending on the opponent’s system,” said the manager.
“Gabriel sometimes plays on the left for the national team. He is not specific winger like Raheem, Bernardo, Leroy and Riyad, but he can play there when we need more players in the box.
“He has an incredible work ethic, he can help us with runs in behind. His diagonal movement is so good.”
