Man City trio Phil Foden, Jack Grealish and John Stones dropped for Newcastle win due to disciplinary issue, hints Pep
PEP GUARDIOLA has hinted he dropped Phil Foden, Jack Grealish and John Stones for Manchester City’s win at Newcastle due to disciplinary reasons.
The trio were all named on the bench as the champions demolished Eddie Howe’s side at St James’ Park yesterday.
Goals from Ruben Dias, Joao Cancelo, Riyad Mahrez and Raheem Sterling saw City move three points clear of Liverpool at the top of the table.
And only Stones made it off the bench to play some part in City’s record-breaking victory.
But speaking to 5Live after the game, Guardiola revealed he did not leave his English trio out for rotation purposes.
Adding he has been ‘paying attention’ to ‘off-pitch behaviour’ which is ‘not proper’, City boss Guardiola explained: “Not rotation, no.
“I decided for this team because they deserved to play today, these guys and not the other ones.
“At Christmas time I pay a lot of attention to behaviour on and off the pitch. And when off the pitch is not proper they are not going to play.
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“So we have to be focused all the time because of the distractions at Christmas time and everything that happens – you have to still be focused.”
Guardiola’s ruthless decision came as Grealish declared his ambition to win the Treble this term.
The England ace said: “We have so much talent here and so many good players. I really think we could go all the way in a few competitions this year.
“That is what I have come here for, to win trophies, so hopefully come the end of the season I will have a few medals around my neck.”
Reflecting on his own struggles since his record £100million summer move from Aston Villa, Grealish added: “I’ve actually struggled with my goals and assists.
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“Especially the price-tag on my head, as soon as you don’t get those goals and assists for a while people start talking and doubting you.
“That is what I have felt like recently but those two are the ones I am trying to work on the most.
“That’s where you need to trust in my own ability and take it from there.”