Pep backs star to keep on shining

PEP GUARDIOLA is convinced Fernandinho can go back to the future.

The Manchester City boss raised eyebrows by slotting the Brazilian midfielder into the back line in a tactical ploy to beat Arsenal a week ago.

But Guardiola has a track record for the unexpected having switched Javier Mascherano to a centre-back during the pair’s time at Barcelona.

And following Fernandinho’s success in his new position, Guardiola feels he can extend his career as a defensive lynchpin.

The former Shakhtar man will be 35 when his contract ends in 18 months – but he has got years left in him with the skill and mindset to play at the back. Guardiola said: “He can play in that position. He is fast, strong in the air, good going backwards.

“And when he sees the football in front of him, his vision for the pass inside, switch of play, is excellent. So he is intelligent to go forward or backwards. He understands everything.

“Of course, he has to train more but I think he can do it. Although his position is as a midfielder. He can play there though. We need a guy who understands the build-up and that is why we use him.

“It is better to be always in the same position. You know that. Always there and not change too much but when the player is open minded and you speak to him in training and he says, ‘I can do it’. And he understands the situation, it is not a problem.”

The only problem now is to find another superstar to fill Fernandinho’s boots in the future.

Guardiola said: “The scouting department is always looking for players for different positions and you never know what is going to happen.

“We have some options but today it is not easy to find the player and to buy the player – so we will see.

“Am I close? No. It is not close but the winter transfer window is over. Until summer we have time.”

STEVE MILLAR