Pep Guardiola has heaped praise on Fernandinho’s attitude ahead of the Manchester City captain coming to the rescue amid a defensive injury crisis.
Sporting CP arrive at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday for the second leg of their last-16 tie, which City lead 5-0 on aggregate, but the hosts are without a number of defenders.
Joao Cancelo (illness), Kyle Walker (suspended), Ruben Dias (hamstring) and Nathan Ake (knock) will miss the game, leading to either the Brazilian dropping into the backline or teenager Luke Mbete making a start.
With Fernandinho’s contract up at the end of the season, Guardiola suggested he wants the veteran to stay for another year.
“Fernandinho and [Kevin] De Bruyne in this case have been in every meeting we have had over the last six years,” he told reporters on Tuesday.
“He and Kevin know exactly what happens, they read exactly what happens especially when at half-time things aren’t going well.
“I am so glad to have him. He is an incredible player and captain. At the beginning of the season, at 36, he struggled a little bit after the holidays to find his rhythm, but now I have the feeling he is getting better.
“For him he doesn't care, he will play against Peterborough. Other players his age wouldn't want to play in the cold weather, but he wants to help to give rest to Rodri.
“At the end of the season we will decide [on his future].”
