I allowed him to be a manager - Pep Guardiola says Rodri is coaching Man City players

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has commended injured midfielder Rodri for taking on a coaching role within the team, helping his teammates during their crucial run-in.

Rodri, who tore his cruciate knee ligament in September, has been working on his recovery and was spotted in the dressing room before City's 2-1 win over Aston Villa, offering advice to his teammates.

"I love that. All the guys who can't play and are injured, I allow them to be a manager," Guardiola said.

He continued, "The role of a holding midfielder, Rodri knows perfectly and he can help the guys there."

Guardiola highlighted the importance of team bonding, saying, "It's the way that creates teams, the bond, something special, when the guys who can't play can help the guys who are playing.

He added, "I don’t know. Every training session he is doing with us, so he’s doing really well.. Rodri wants [to come back before the end of the season] but the doctors are going to tell me."

Guardiola will battle Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup semi final on Sunday.