Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola insists Ilkay Gundogan will come good.

Asked if he believed Gundogan could play a similarly crucial role this campaign to last season's, Guardiola was confident.

He replied: “Every player is so important. You have to understand there are injuries and highs and lows in careers.

“What a player did last season doesn't mean he will do it again.

“Ilkay is so important, you know, he is intelligent, always thinking what is best for the team, but he was injured and needs time.

“He is getting better and we need him like we need all the players. He will be much better in a few months and there are others who need to play now because they are in top form and may drop later.

“You have maintain it every day. That's why these players get credit for the last 6 years because it's every day."