Pep Guardiola claims returning Everton star is ‘exceptional’ ahead of Man City clash

Pep Guardiola has labelled Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin as ‘exceptional’ ahead of Manchester City’s Premier League clash with the Toffees on New Year’s Eve.

The striker has struggled with injuries over the last 18 months, but Frank Lampard has confirmed Calvert-Lewin could be involved when Everton travel to Manchester this weekend. Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Lampard told reporters on Friday: “We’ve got Dominic coming back for City potentially, maybe Brighton [on 3 January].

“I said it the other day - you can’t underestimate the strength or power of losing a player who’s been part of this club for a good few years in terms of a goal return alongside Richy [Richarlison].”

Later that afternoon, Guardiola was asked about the the threat of facing the Everton striker on Saturday,” he responded. “Unfortunately for him [Calvert-Lewin] and Everton, he was injured for the last period, doesn’t have the consistency to play and this is difficult. But when he is on top he’s exceptional; long balls, second balls in the box. He’s a dangerous player.

“I don’t know what Everton is going to do,” he added, on the difficulties Lampard’s side could pose. “If they defend deep we have to know how to handle that, the transition from [Jordan] Pickford is so fast.

“The quality is there - we have a feeling Everton have exceptional, really good players. In this period of the calendar it can be a problem. Just three days after the game against Leeds, which was so demanding. We have to be ready again.”

The City manager also paid tribute to Pele during his pre-match briefing, following the sad news on Thursday that the Brazilian legend passed away at the age of 82.

“Football is football thanks to these types of people, players and human beings. What he has done for football is there and always will remain,” said Guardiola.

“He didn’t just win three World Cups - it was a new thing when he came up. I was not born when he was playing but it’s like a good movie, no?

“The legacy after many years is still there. We are still talking all these years later. Pele, Maradona, Cruyff, Messi, Beckenbauer, Cristiano Ronaldo - these players will be forever, will be eternal.