Man City boss Guardiola hails goalscorer Bernardo: Among most intelligent I've seen | OneFootball

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola hailed the performance of Bernardo Silva for victory over Aston Villa.

The Portuguese playmaker was back to his very best against Aston Villa with a tireless display, capped by a superb goal.

His manager says he is not surprised and that he can do even more.

"Bernardo, I said many times, is one of the most intelligent players I have ever seen," said Guardiola.

"He can do everything in every position and he has the quality to score goals, too.

"He has to convince himself to be more important in the final third.

"When you want to be a top player you have to be important in making goals and assists.

"It's really good for him and us. A fantastic goal."

Though Villa protested Bernardo's goal the boss says VAR would have picked up any infringement if there was anything wrong.

He added: "I didn't watch the image on TV.

"I know they complained on the touchline but VAR is there.

"There are many times when there are long balls and the player is offside and you go backwards with the centre-half and use the counter-attack.

"I don't know the rule. If it was offside I am sure VAR wouldn't have allowed it. In general the way we played was outstanding.

"We deserved to win."