Champions League: Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola brushes aside concerns over Fernandinho's extended workload in defence
FirstpostGuardiola also had warm words for Riyad Mahrez, who impressed in the 3-1 win against Everton and has been directly involved in 17 goals in his past 17 starts for City in all competitions Manchester: Pep Guardiola played down concerns over 34-year-old Fernandinho’s ability to cope with a high workload as he juggles his stretched defensive resources for Tuesday’s Champions League match against Dinamo Zagreb. The previous season, he played every three days.” Midfielder Rodrigo said the spate of defensive injuries was not an “excuse” for City, who won their Champions League opener 3-0 away to Shakhtar Donetsk. It’s a tough time for the team but it will make us stronger.” Guardiola also had warm words for Riyad Mahrez, who impressed in the 3-1 win against Everton and has been directly involved in 17 goals in his past 17 starts for City in all competitions. “Hopefully he can maintain that level for a long time.” Guardiola also believes his side need to make their supporters, who have had a love-hate relationship with UEFA competitions, excited by the Champions League, which they have never won.