Pep Guardiola said that Sunday's 1-1 draw with Liverpool was a fair reflection of the game.

Both sides had chances to win the Etihad encounter and City missed a penalty before the break after fighting back from falling behind.

But ultimately, the boss felt that a point apiece was fair.

“It was a tough game,” Guardiola reflected. “They started really well and made runs in behind.

“It’s not easy because they were so fast up front today with four players.

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“After the penalty, we played much better and equalised. It was a tight game. Not many chances for both sides.

“Of course, every team wants three points. One point is one point. We have played 12 games and lost once this season.

“Maybe I am happier than ever. We conceded a penalty again, hopefully we learn.

“But I am very happy. Now, hopefully they can enjoy the international team and come back safe, no injuries. 

“Unfortunately, we have drawn a bit too much. But a draw is a fair result.”

The boss also heaped praise on Gabriel Jesus and Joao Cancelo.

The Brazil striker scored his third goal of the season to pull City level and Pep added: “He was really good.

“I didn’t expect he could sustain 90 minutes, but he did. He helped us. He made a fantastic goal - a good goal. It was a good result for him.”

On Cancelo, who produced a man-of-the match display, he added: “He played exceptionally, with the ball and without the ball.

“When he is consistent, his focus is fantastic. He’s a fantastic football player.”

FORWARD MARCH: Joao Cancelo takes the fight to Liverpool
FORWARD MARCH: Joao Cancelo takes the fight to Liverpool

Both sets of players looked exhausted after their efforts and Pep was asked if a solution was to allow five subs in the Premier League until some kind of normality returns.

“Today, the right-back for the England team is injured,” Guardiola added referring to Trent Alex-Arnold’s calf issue that forced the defender off.

“I don’t understand who is in charge to describe these things.

“How do they not understand this is different from a normal situation?

“All leagues all around the world except this one - maybe because it likes to be different - has five subs to protect players because the situation is unusual.

“I am surprised. I don’t understand. But the show must go on. It’s about protecting players.

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“The situation today is exceptional and all the leagues around the world see that, except here.

“Lebron James won the NBA title and then will go on holiday for two months, three months.

“These guys had two weeks. Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsene Wenger say the same - nothing changed.

“Will they change with Jurgen, myself, Ole? Of course not. The virus is here. Same in Germany. Spain. The national team in England now doesn’t play with their full-back.”