Pep Guardiola says the Etihad Stadium showed great warmth to Oscar Bobb on the Norwegian’s long-awaited return from injury.
After impressing in pre-season and at the Community Shield, Bobb suffered a leg injury last August that has kept him sidelined ever since.
Having worked hard with the club’s medical staff to get back to fitness, he was afforded the final minutes in Wednesday’s comfortable Premier League victory over Leicester City.
The Etihad faithful were clearly delighted to see the playmaker return, with fans on all four sides of the ground rising to their feet to welcome him to the pitch.
City 2-0 Leicester | Match report
Speaking in his post-match press conference, Guardiola highlighted that reception but also stressed that he will have to manage the Norwegian’s game time for the rest of this season.
“It was long because he was injured and not recovered the way what we expected. It’s a long time,” he said.
“Before Chelsea in the first Premier League game, he was unfortunately injured.
“He cannot forget the warmth from our people, it was really nice. He is a top, talented player. His pressing and rhythm.
“Unfortunately now we are in a period where minutes are difficult but we are really pleased he’s back and played a few minutes.
“I would like to bring him on earlier but at 2-0 the game is not over so I decided for later.”
Watch the full press conference above...