“I was really impressed” – Pep Guardiola lauds Manchester City teenager after Liverpool victory

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has widely praised teenage full-back Rico Lewis after his performance in Thursday’s win over Liverpool.

The Blues, who booked their place in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals with a victory over holders Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium, will now face Southampton at St Mary’s in January.

Nathan Ake’s second half header proved the difference, as City marked their return to action with a thrilling 3-2 win over the Merseyside club.

Pep Guardiola handed another start to teenage right-back Rico Lewis, who has now impressed against both Liverpool and Chelsea in the League Cup.

The 18 year-old has made seven appearances for City already this campaign, featuring in the Premier League and UEFA Champions League as well as the Carabao Cup.

Lewis’ impressive performances have led to widespread praise, with Guardiola lauding the teenagers showing against Liverpool on Thursday night.

Speaking after the victory, Guardiola said: “Without him we couldn’t play the way we played. I was really impressed.

“He’ll be an incredible player for Man City in the next few years. He’s so intelligent, so humble. He’s 18 and he was outstanding, he was man of the match.”

The England teen also scored his first Manchester City goal in November, smashing home against Sevilla in a 3-1 victory.

Lewis made his debut from the bench versus Bournemouth in August, and also played against Girona in Saturday’s friendly at the Academy Stadium.