The veteran played an unconventional role in Manchester City's win over Arsenal last week, but his manager believes he can succeed in the position
Pep Guardiola believes Fernandinho can thrive as a centre-back during the final years of his career as the influential Manchester City midfielder prepares to make an international return with Brazil.
Guardiola raised eyebrows by selecting the 33-year-old in hybrid centre-back/defensive-midfield role for last weekend's 3-1 win over Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium, with Fernandinho dropping into a back four alongside Nicolas Otamendi when out of possession before driving into midfield to support anchorman Ilkay Gundogan when City had the ball.