Guardiola lauds 'incredibly important' Jesus for starring in Norwich rout

Operating from the wide right position, the Brazilian was involved in three of his side’s five goals in Saturday’s league outing.

Gabriel Jesus earned high praise from manager Pep Guardiola following his sensational display in Manchester City’s 5-0 victory over Norwich City.

Jesus was afforded a rare start as Man City looked to bounce back from the shock defeat against Tottenham in their Premier League opener last week.

The forward more than justified his selection as he helped the Sky Blues opened the scoring by forcing an own goal from Tim Krul, set up Jack Grealish to double that lead, and teed up Raheem Sterling for the fourth goal of the evening.

The 24-year-old’s future has been up in the air amid rumors City could cash in on him in order to raise funds for Harry Kane’s transfer. If that’s true, his performance on Saturday might prompt the club to change their decision.

“He’s a player who likes to be in more of a wider than central position,” Guardiola said in his post-match press conference.

“He never complains. If he plays five minutes, he plays the best five minutes he can do. He’s happy on the left, right, centre… and today, the connection with Kyle Walker was exceptional.

“I’m pleased with the performance. He was involved in three of our goals – he’s an incredibly important player for us.

“He’s so young. A big congratulations because he deserves in life the best. He’s so generous and I’m incredibly satisfied for him.”