GUARDIOLA SKIPS REF SUMMIT

PEP GUARDIOLA failed to meet Mike Riley to discuss Manchester City’s frustration at refereeing inconsistencies – despite calling for greater protection for players.

Former Premier League ref Riley (left), head of the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL), met with City sporting director Txiki Begiristain (right) and chief operating officer Omar Berrada at the City’s training ground yesterday.

Although Guardiola was at the training complex, preparing for tonight’s Champions League last-16 tie with Basel, he was not involved in the meeting with Riley. His absence from the meeting was a surprise, given he has been so outspoken about wanting to see greater protection for players.

Asked about the meeting, Guardiola said: “I didn’t know it. I don’t know which issues they talked about.

“When I spoke about the tackles it is not about Manchester City players, it was about all football. I will speak with Txiki. Maybe he will tell me how the meeting went.”