Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola insists he will stick with Fernandinho at centre back despite fearing Burnley’s aerial threat.
The Brazil international is set to start at Turf Moor on Tuesday as City aim to cut Liverpool’s lead over them to eight points.
Guardiola insists he now sees Fernandinho as a defender, rather than midfielder, despite growing calls for him to be restored to his favoured role.
“Fernandinho is not the reason why we win or lose,” said the City manager. “When we beat Chelsea everyone said how fantastic Fernandinho was.
“When we don’t win it’s because of Fernandinho. It will be my decision. I like him in that position because of the build-up for the fast (play), for the long balls. Many things.”
City have no fresh injury concerns, but Ilkay Gundogan is suspended.
Guardiola has told his players to avoid giving away set pieces, which could play into the hands of Sean Dyche’s side.
“That is the dream,” he said. “Defend high and try to play as much as possible and to avoid it as much as possible.
“That is one of their successes because when they are able to increase the possession in the box they are so good.”
Possible Man City XI: Ederson; Walker, Fernandinho, Otamendi, Mendy; De Bruyne, Rodri, Silva; Mahrez, Jesus, Sterling
