As reported by Fabrizio Romano, the Spaniard has insisted that midfielder Kalvin Phillips is part of his plans, despite the Englishman having played just six minutes of football for City this season.

“Kalvin Phillips decided to stay after we discussed internally — also about loan,” he said ahead of City’s trip to the capital.

“As a good guy who accepts everything and stays, they are welcome. He has to be ready — Kalvin will be important”.

Phillips has only played 22 times for City since joining the club last summer

Phillips, 27, joined City from Leeds United last summer, having made more than 230 appearances for the Whites.

Since moving to Manchester, though, the midfielder has struggled for game time.

In total he has played just 22 times for the Citizens, starting only two Premier League matches last season.

He was, however, part of the City side that completed a remarkable treble, winning the Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup.

Spain international Rodri has primarily been deployed as City’s holding midfielder, while Ilkay Gundogan also played in the role at times last season.

Phillips’ only appearance so far this season came as an 84th minute substitute against Fulham earlier this month, however he did play for England against Scotland on Tuesday.