Fernandinho flexibility vital, says Guardiola

Pep Guardiola hailed the adaptability of Fernandinho after the Brazilian helped step into the breach in City’s central defence with aplomb in our 4-0 Premier League win over Brighton.

The Brazilian was pressed into defence afterAymeric Laportewas stretchered off late in the first half with a worrying-looking knee injury.

With John Stones also recovering from a knock, Fernandinho’s flexibility could prove even more important over the next few weeks.

And the City boss couldn’t disguise his admiration for the midfielder’s ability to drop into defence.

READ: Fernandinho | Brighton win was perfectly timed

READ: Guardiola provides Laporte injury update

“He’s a holding midfielder and everyone knows that. Me included,” Pep said in his post-match press conference.

“But I think he has the conditions to play at centre-back

“He’s intelligent, he’s fast, he’s strong and he can head the ball.

“He can see what’s happening in front of him. He can play in both positions.”

Click on the video to watch Pep’s press conference in full…