Man City team news: Pep Guardiola reveals role for ex-Leeds United man against Newcastle

Pep Guardiola has confirmed that ex-Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips will start against Newcastle United.

City travel to Newcastle on Wednesday night in the Carabao Cup third round clash.

Phillips has struggled for game time since making the switch from Elland Road last summer and has featured just three times for the Citizens this season.

However, the England international is set to be handed a rare start by Guardiola at St James’ Park - against the side he has been heavily-linked with a move to during recent transfer windows.

Guardiola said: "His consistency, he does everything in the game what happened against Nottingham, it was more defensive, resilient, defend and he helped us breathe.

“The important is when you act in the smaller spaces we try to help him. The game tomorrow is important and every single game I'll decide what's best for the team."

Guardiola also revealed that Jack Grealish and Mateo Kovacic will feature against the Magpies. "Jack is much better, Mateo as well.” Guardiola said.

“I don't know how many minutes, from the start of second half, but they are going to get minutes."