The England international has been competing for a starting berth with Riyad Mahrez and Phil Foden in particular in recent weeks, and will be keen to make his mark as we look to get the better of Leeds United in Saturday’s lunchtime kick-off.
But Guardiola stressed that Sterling remains a key cog in our well-oiled machine, irrespective of whether he starts or comes on as a substitute.
He said: “Raheem has been so important in the period since we arrived.
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“Nothing we have done so would have been possible without him, he is an important player.
“Right now I decide because Riyad (Mahrez) and Phil (Foden) are in incredible, top form, this is the only reason why, there is not another one.
“In the last 30 minutes against Borussia Dortmund, Phil created all the chances that we had at 1-0 and scored the last goal with an incredible control and assist from Gundogan.
“Riyad, the last month, has been so decisive. This is the only reason why.
“He (Sterling) is an important player for our club, there is no doubt about that.”
Hear Guardiola‘s thoughts in full by watching the video above...
