Guardiola praises Lewis quality for being able to play inverted role at Man City

Lewis excelled at fullback, seamlessly transitioning to a midfield role when England had possession.

“Rico played on the left but playing more inside. It is intelligent play,” Guardiola said ahead of City’s game with Brentford on Saturday.

“We need Rico to go up and down on the left for crosses it’s not good.

“But he has to be more central position, short passes, attack more position, more central positions it’s really good.”

Guardiola says Lewis' quality allows him to play such a role.

“(It depends) on the quality they have,” he added. “There are players who can play inside or players can’t play inside.

“It depends on their qualities and skills they, not because I want one player there.

“(If) they have no skills to be there, some people feel more comfortable being outside than being inside.”