Pep Guardiola says he’s been impressed with Abdukodir Khusanov since the Uzbek joined City in January.

The 21-year-old moved from French side Lens two months ago and has already played seven times across the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League.

In that time he’s become something of a fan favourite, with an incredible burst of speed and strength in the tackle endearing him to the Etihad crowd.

Pep delivers injury update

Speaking in his pre-match press conference before Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final trip to Bournemouth, Guardiola was asked about how the defender has settled.

He responded positively, also highlighting Vitor Reis’ transition to life in Manchester.

“He [Khusanov] was not expected to play this many games but the situation in the back four all season means he plays a lot of games. He has a special quality. Really special. He’s so fast and he brings his passion.

“His face doesn’t always show but he shows it in many actions. We are delighted in the short time with training, with many things.

“Vitor [Reis] is the same. The games we played in the FA Cup in previous rounds were so good.

“In the middle of the season it is not easy to settle in a new country and new league. They are so good and so positive in their mindset and body shape.”

Watch the open section of the press conference at the top of the page...

Bournemouth v City app coverage

Our official Man City app allows you to follow all of the action from the south coast in one place.

Minute-by-minute text updates will begin in our Matchday Centre two hours before kick-off, while our Matchday Live show will begin at around 15:15 (UK).

Paul Dickov and Nicky Weaver will be the guests on the latest Matchday Live show, offering their expert insight before, during and after the action. 

During the game you can also listen to live audio commentary from Alistair Mann and Michael Brown while our text commentary continues.

Make sure to have push notifications turned on as well, so you can be alerted to key moments in the action, including goals, red cards and the team news.

Short and extended highlights will be available the following day on the official app and mancity.com while CITY+ subscribers will be able to access a full-match replay.