Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has praised one of his former players.

As City prepare to take on Chelsea in the Premier League, the subject of Cole Palmer has come up.

Guardiola told reporters on Friday that Palmer's ability was never in question when his future at City was being discussed, prior to his sale to Chelsea in the summer.

“When he can play regularly like has happened, then yes, I did not doubt his quality," Guardiola told reporters.

“The stats and the way he is playing, he is already an exceptional player.

“He got the minutes he wanted, and it was just a question of time - he has shown his quality."

Asked if he was happy for Palmer, he added: “Of course. He is a lovely lad and helped us to achieve what we achieved."