PEP: UNLUCKY RUBEN WAS ON COURSE

PEP GUARDIOLA feels that sacked Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim was not far away from constructing a team capable of challenging for the title.

- ALEX JAMES AND SIMON BAJKOWSKI

Amorim was axed on Monday after 14 months in charge with United sixth.

Guardiola, whose Manchester City side face Brighton tonight, said: "Like Enzo [Maresca], he [Amorim] is a top manager. I wish Ruben all the best in the future." Guardiola (right) added: "Normally if you don't get results it doesn't matter the past or the present.