Pep Guardiola has admitted that John Stones' red card offence in the victory over Aston Villa was 'late'.
Manchester City put a disappointing few days on and off the pitch behind them on Wednesday as they pulled 11 points clear of Manchester United with a 2-1 win at Villa Park.
The Blues didn't make life easy for themselves, however, as they fell behind after just 21 seconds as Villa capitalised on a Stones mistake which led to John McGinn tucking home.
Goals from Phil Foden and Rodri helped turn the match on its head but there was yet another set back soon after when Stones was shown a red card for a reckless challenge on Jacob Ramsey.
Guardiola was left apoplectic with the decision and remonstrated with the fourth official for several minutes before the half-time whistle.
City managed to overcome the upheaval, helped massively by Matty Cash making the match an even playing field again with his own red card shortly after the break, and saw the game out in expert fashion.
After having a chance to watch the challenge back again, Guardiola admitted that the challenge was late but still believes a red card was harsh.
"First I didn't see the action on the TV so... it's late," he told Sky Sports. "But the intention is no, because the ball goes late and do it. Now because we win I'm happy but if we lose I would be angry. But it's okay.
"It's tough to play. It's a good lesson for the final on Sunday then the Champions League games against PSG."
