With wingers Craig Bellamy and Adam Johnson in terrific form of late and the Emmanuel Adebayor and Carlos Tevez partnership blossoming, Garrido says the City attack combines effort and skill to great effect.
“We have so much quality up front that I really enjoy playing behind our front four,” said the Spaniard.
“As a defender, the best thing for me is that they don’t only attack – they defend, too, which is very important for us as a team. Ade and Tevez defend from the front and never give the opposition a moment’s peace and that sets the tone for us.”
With Roberto Mancini encouraging his wide players to swap wings during games, Garrido has to slightly alter his game, too, depending on who is playing in front of him.
“Our wingers have different characteristics and that means I have to adapt my style slightly when they change around.
“Bellamy is more direct in his style while Johnson likes to cut inside more, but they are both very skilful, quick and have a lot of quality on the ball.
Shaun Wright-Phillips is another very skilful, hard-working player I enjoy working with – we are lucky to have these types of players at our club
...Javier Garrido
Garrido reached a personal landmark against Birmingham on Sunday, clocking up a half-century of starts for the Blues during the 5-1 win.
He realises there is plenty of competition for his position, but is happy to slot in whenever he is required.
“I always try to do my best and like everyone else at the club, I’d love to play every week, but the fact is we have some great players here and any number who can play at left-back,” he said.
“I train hard and when the manager needs me, I’m always ready. It was really nice to make my 50th start in a game where we played so well as a team.
“We are in a great position and there is a fantastic spirit within the squad. We have a tough run-in, but we have plenty of confidence and are in great shape to end the season on a real high.”
