Pep Guardiola looks to shore up defence by handing Fernandinho first start of the season at centre-back against Shakhtar Donetsk
- Pep Guardiola faces a selection dilemma before the clash with Shakhtar Donetsk
- Nicolas Otamendi and John Stones were lambasted after the defeat by Norwich
- Centre-back Aymeric Laporte is unavailable after suffering a long-term injury
- Fernandinho is set to deputise when Manchester City return to European action
Pep Guardiola is contemplating shaking up Manchester City’s defence after the weekend’s shambolic capitulation at Norwich City.
Nicolas Otamendi and John Stones were both heavily criticised for their part in the 3-2 defeat, a result that reinforced City’s problems without the injured Aymeric Laporte.
Fernandinho, now viewed as permanent central defensive cover, is likely to make his first start of the season against Shakhtar Donetsk on Wednesday following Saturday’s horrendous mistakes.
Fernandinho is set to make his first start of the season against Shakhtar Donetsk
The 34-year-old last started a game at the heart of City’s back four in February, the last-gasp 3-2 Champions League last-16 victory away at Schalke riddled with defensive errors.
Guardiola insisted they have enough quality at the back to cope during Laporte’s absence and claimed the Premier League champions would not spend in January.
Kyle Walker did not escape censure for his display at Carrow Road either and begins the real fight for his place this week after the summer signing of Joao Cancelo.
Pep Guardiola was left perplexed by his team’s defending in the 3-2 defeat by Norwich
Cancelo, the most expensive right back in world football, is set for a full debut against the Ukrainian league leaders.
City spent £60million on signing Cancelo from Juventus in a deal that saw Danilo go the other way for £34m.
The Portugal international has had to wait for his chance, playing just a minute so far this term, but is expected to be given the nod ahead of Walker tomorrow (WED).