Micah Richards believes Ilkay Gundogan has become a "talisman" for title-chasing Manchester City.
Gundogan has been in excellent form over the past 10 games - scoring seven goals and providing one assist in that time.
The German midfielder's form has helped City go on a 13-game winning run in all competitions, as Pep Guardiola's side sit three points clear at the top of the Premier League.
The 30-year-old played a big part in City's latest win, the 2-0 victory over Burnley, with Gundogan providing a brilliant cross for Raheem Sterling to double the visitor's advantage at Turf Moor.
Speaking on Match of the Day, former City defender Richards was full of praise for the midfielder and believes he has stepped up since Kevin De Bruyne suffered an injury in last month's victory over Aston Villa.
“He’s become a talisman in this team," he said.
"Seven goals, he’s got assists, 22 chances created - this is from the last 10 games. If you look at the 20 games prior to that, it’s nowhere near.
"I think now, he’s stepping up, I think people put too much pressure on De Bruyne to always deliver. He’s running into the box, in the box where he’s going to make a difference.
"He can press, which Pep loves as well and his all-round game is improving. You know when you’ve got Kevin De Bruyne, they’re big boots to fill, but he’s doing it at the moment.
"His form coincides with Man City’s form to watch and he’s been a pleasure to watch.”
Richards' colleague, former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy, was also complimentary of Gundogan.
Murphy tried putting his finger on why the German's game has improved so much in recent weeks and he thinks it's something to do with Guardiola.
“The difference, I think, has to partly go down to the manager. There’s no way you can go from two league goals last season and start contributing," said Murphy.
"The difference is monumental and I think Pep’s given him a kick up the backside and told him he can do more and he has.”
Gundogan is likely to be involved on Sunday as City travel to fourth-place Liverpool, as the Merseyside club look to bounce back against the Premier League leaders.
Jurgen Klopp's side were beaten at home to Brighton & Hove Albion on Wednesday evening and will be looking to close the gap to City. However, Guardiola's side will be aiming to extend their winning run to 14 against last season's champions.
