Philippe Sandler says the City squad are ‘getting stronger every day’ as the build-up continues to the new season.

The Dutch centre half was part of the squad which recorded a fine 4-0 win over Barnsley at the weekend in what was our second pre-season friendly.

Pep Guardiola’s side face another Academy Stadium friendly on Tuesday against Blackpool before we then head to Wembley for next Sunday’s Community Shield against Leicester City.

For his part, Sandler believes the games are providing the squad with the perfect preparation ahead of the serious business which gets under way later this month with our Premier League opener away at Spurs taking place in a fortnight.

And after injury issues curtailed his minutes on the field last season, the 24-year-old was also delighted to be back in action.

“I feel like we’re getting stronger every day. We’re training well and it’s good to get the games in,” Sandler reflected after the Barnsley victory.

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“You need games to get fit for the season. The best thing about football is playing games

“Personally speaking, I’ve been injured for a long time so to be back playing with the guys is the best feeling.”

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