You’re still my super STER
Raheem remains a key man for Pep
PEP GUARDIOLA has told Raheem Sterling he is still one of his biggame players at Manchester City.
Sterling has found himself on the outside looking in after starting just one of City’s last six games in all competitions.
The England winger was dropped from the squad for last month’s trip to Fulham and has scored just once in his last six appearances.
He has started more games for his country than club in recent weeks – and seen the likes of Phil Foden (far right) and Riyad Mahrez
(right) oust him from the side.
But with City closing in on a historic Quadruple haul of trophies, the manager has assured Sterling that he remains a big part of his plans and one of his main men.
Guardiola, whose side host Leeds today, said: “Raheem has been so important in our period here – nothing would have been possible without him.
“I see Riyad and Phil in top form so this is the only reason why. They collaborate, they compete and Phil in the last three minutes against Borussia Dortmund (in the Champions League) he created all the chances and scored a goal.
“Riyad has been so decisive so this is the only reason why. But Raheem’s still so important for the team and the club.”
Guardiola insists he will back whatever decision Sergio Aguero makes this summer and would not have a problem if the striker decides to join a Premier League rival.
Aguero will be leaving the Etihad in June and is considering his options, with several offers on the table from top-flight clubs. But Guardiola said: “We wish the best for him, that he finds what is best for Sergio for the last years in his career.
“We’d be delighted with the decision he takes, for him and his family.
“My preference is his preference. The best for him is the best for us.”
Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa has described City as having “magical qualities”. Guardiola admits to feeling honoured that one of the managerial rivals he respects the most has been so gushing in his praise. He said: “I’m overwhelmed. It feels weird because he’s a huge competitor. He’s the most honest person, when I could speak with him.
“He doesn’t say anything to the media, it’s for himself, so I’m overwhelmed.
“Everyone knows the respect and admiration I have for him. Always he’ll be in my heart and I think, ‘Wow, I don’t deserve it’.
“If there’s one person we can research to find the secrets, the way we want to do it, it’s him, because of his work ethic and knowledge.
“I know how tough this game will be. They’ve done incredibly well this season but hopefully we’ll be prepared as we are close to being champions – and this is the chance for another step.”