While Pep Guardiola and Manchester City are in the unlikeliest of positions having to battle desperately for a Champions League berth next season, the manager did not mince his words in describing the enormity of the challenge.

Guardiola has praised the rise of mid-table teams such as Brighton to challenge for top spots this season, and when asked on Friday if he considered Saturday's opponents as rivals, he said: "And Bournemouth, and Aston Villa, and Newcastle (United), and maybe Fulham. Fantastic teams.

Reaction from Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola following their game against Brighton on Saturday was interesting as they dropped more points. City lost at Nottingham Forest last weekend to throw more doubt over whether or not they will finish in the Champions League qualification spots,