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Man City given boost as Guardiola confirms Rodri and Foden will return for Spurs clash

Pep Guardiola was happy to see two of his stars return to the fold
Pep Guardiola was happy to see two of his stars return to the foldČTK / imago sportfotodienst / IMAGO
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola was given a boost before their clash against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday with the return of Rodri and Phil Foden to his matchday squad.

City eased to a 4-0 away win against Wolves on the opening day and claimed their spot at the top of the table on goal difference, followed by newly promoted Sunderland. Ahead of the lunchtime game, Guardiola gave team news on some big names who could return. 

Rdori and Foden return

"Rodri and Phil (Foden) were not available for the last game, they were out, but it was just because of a lack of training, they are ready for tomorrow. 

"Mateo Kovacic, Josko Gvardiol and Savinho are the only ones that are out." 

Frank needs time

The Spanish head coach was then questioned on Tottenham manager Thomas Frank, who he thinks needs time before anyone can judge his side. 

"It's too early to know (how they have changed) but I have no doubt that Thomas will do an incredible job at a big, big club, just like he did at Brentford. 

"He is a top-class manager and he offers a different alternative to how they can play. Going in to a new club is always funny and a different challenge but you have to wait.” 

Man City are ready for a challenge

Spurs are quite often the toughest challenge for City and Guardiola has always struggled to come away with 3 points. He stated that it is a new season however, and his are fresher than ever. 

"Spurs have been a tough opponent for us, but this is a new season for us and what happened in the past is in the past and there's nothing we can do. 

"Last season (4-0 defeat) came after an international break and a poor run of results and the dynamic wasn't good but it is a new season with new vibes and the game will hopefully like the first 15-20 minutes of the game last season." 

Premier League: Manchester City - Tottenham (videoprevia)
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Rodri is "the best in the world"

The Spanish maestro returns for City this weekend, which will be a worry for Tottenham as Rodri is quite often the glue in City's midfield. Guardiola had high praise for the 29-year-old who will be eased back into the side.

"I just want consistency with Rodri. I don't have any doubts about his potential or his ability. Still, so far, he is the best player in the world.

"The consistency will come with training and games, training and games, week after week and after that everything will be fine."

Trafford to start?

Finally, he was asked whether James Trafford will start the game over Ederson whose spot between the sticks is under serious threat from the English international.

"We will decide tomorrow or tonight after dinner. I am happy with him, the new players always bring a new energy and James brings his youth and desire to play for the club he grew up at.

"I said many times it was just his first game, we just have to be consistent and we have to be better and improve."

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