Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has picked Paul Scholes as his favourite midfielder ahead of Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard.
The Spanish tactician has had his say on a debate that has been raging from the trio's time in England's golden generation. Throughout their respective playing careers, they shone for Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United but never quite enjoyed the same success on the international stage with the Three Lions.
Former Red Devil, Rio Ferdinand, quizzed Guardiola on his preference of either Lampard, Scholes and the legendary Liverpool midfielder.
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Speaking to Vibe with Five, the 51-year-old said: "All respect to Frank [Lampard], to Steven [Gerrard] but Paul Scholes is my favourite one. I love it. I think he had everything but the other two, come on, Frank and Steven Gerrard changed this. Paul Scholes is my favourite."
One of Guardiola's current stars, Kevin de Bruyne, successfully charged down Gerrard's Premier League record of 92 assists as the Belgian has moved onto 95 all-time goal contributions.
In September, the City boss joked why he felt sorry for the former Liverpool captain, he said: “I’m sorry for Steven Gerrard but his record will be beaten sooner or later.
"I'm pretty sure that Gerrard would be happy if someone beats his record if it’s a player like Kevin. He always gives a good example for other generations, for the kids of how to be a football player and behave. As a player he is exceptional, he can do whatever he wants and hopefully he can maintain this level for a long time."
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