Aleksandr Kolarov says he is full of admiration for Joao Cancelo and says he is a pivotal member of the City team.

The Serbian left-back won the Premier League twice with City during his seven-year stay during which he made 247 appearances, scoring 21 goals.

He also won 94 caps for his country, during a wonderful career that he finally called time on in the summer.

“It was quite clear from the beginning that Cancelo was going to be very successful with Manchester City because he is first choice in his position and he is increasing his levels every season,” said Kolarov

“He is a great footballer, and he can play on the right or the left.

“In fact, he is more dangerous on the left because he can cut in on the right and he has great vision, and he is often more like a midfielder.

“He is well-suited to Pep’s style of play.”

The Serbian also had advice for two of City’s upcoming full-backs, Josh Wilson-Esbrand and Rico Lewis, too.

“My advice to is to listen to other players and the coaches and be focused on the job,” he said.

“They can improve just by training with the first team who have won many titles in recent years.

“The fact they are regularly in the matchday squad shows they have the mental strength needed at that level.”

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And ahead of our weekend clash with Brighton, Kolarov claimed that Seagulls boss Roberto De Zerbi will thrive in English football once he has fully settled in this country.

“I know him personally - I call him ‘Small Pep’ and I think he will do great things in the Premier League,” he said.

“I played against his team in Italy and they were always very difficult to play against - I’m sure he’ll do very well with Brighton.”