Phil Foden and Bernardo Silva caught Pep Guardiola's eye in Manchester City's win over Crystal Palace
Phil Foden and Pep Guardioladuring the Premier League match between Manchester City and Crystal Palace
Phil Foden and Pep Guardiola embrace when the midfielder was replaced in Manchester City's win over Crystal Palace
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Pep Guardiola hailed Manchester City's old hand and returning star after Manchester City kept alive their Premier League title hopes with a 3-0 win over Crystal Palace.
Phil Foden shone on his first start since Nottingham Forest's visit in March, while Bernardo Silva again earned the praise of his manager with the captain one of expected FA Cup final starters to keep his place amid six changes.
Foden, who caught the eye off the bench against Brentford at the weekend, produced his best performance in months with two assists and left the pitch to a standing ovation when replaced late on.
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Asked if that was Foden's best showing for a while, Guardiola said: "Playing as a holding midfielder, but in the last 20-25 minutes v Brentford he was outstanding.
"It is not about laziness or not running, he is running all the time and helps Bernie and then without the ball we want [him] close to the box and he is unique close to the box.
"Bernie I like a lot, the last game v Brentford for his defensive intuition. Second ball he is there. He has something unique. Everything is replaceable in life like managers and sporting directors but there are players which are a bit more difficult.
"Bernardo is a grandfather already and Phil is still a little boy. He's 24-25 and have a lot to improve. He has to be who he is and after the experience, step by step."