NICO'S REACHED THE TOP LEVEL WITH RODFATHER'S GUIDANCE

PEP GUARDIOLA has faith in Nico Gonzalez’s ability to stand in for Manchester City talisman Rodri - because he has learnt from the master.

- BY TYRONE MARSHALL

PEP GUARDIOLA has faith in Nico Gonzalez’s ability to stand in for Manchester City talisman Rodri - because he has learnt from the master.

Guardiola is desperate to have Ballon d'Or winner Rodri (right) available again as he battles to prove his fitness after an ACL injury. The Spaniard will once again be missing when Liverpool visit the Etihad today, meaning Gonzalez will keep his place in the side. The 23-year-old is in the best form of his City career - having joined from Porto in January - and Guardiola puts a lot of that improvement down to the fact that he has had guidance from Rodri.

Guardiola said: “I think Nico had the best teacher in that position. He (Rodri) is one of the most competitive football players I've ever met in my career and how he pushes his mates is unbelievable.

“Being outside when he is involved and with us he's always incredibly positive with Nico, helping him a lot.

“All I want is Rodri to be happy - it's been tough. But the toughest period with a long injury is gone.