Pep’s tinkering strikes again! Guardiola DROPS Phil Foden to the bench for Man City’s clash at Crystal Palace just days after the England star scored superb hat-trick

Phil Foden was left on the bench for Manchester’s visit to Crystal Palace at Saturday lunchtime kick-off.

The 23-year-old has had a season to remember and scored a magnificent hat-trick in midweek as City thrashed Aston Villa 4-1.

Kevin De Bruyne has returned to the team while there is a rare start for Oscar Bobb against the Eagles, with Foden and Jeremy Doku making way.

Guardiola explained: ‘It was difficult (leaving Foden on the bench). It is always difficult but we have many games. Phil played against Arsenal, 96 minutes and friendly matches with the national team, and he couldn’t move.

“There are a lot of games and that’s why we decided.” If we win, great decision, if we lose, why did you do that?

‘Yes (they can play Foden and KDB together). The day after tomorrow we travel to Madrid. Sometimes we need fresh.

“I would love to have Phil on the field. I’m not stupid! I like him. Many games, many players, that’s why I decided that (leave him out).”