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Walker an all-time great, says Guardiola ahead of Man City return / Photo: © AFP
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Walker an all-time great, says Guardiola ahead of Man City return
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola hailed Kyle Walker as "one of the greatest full-backs ever" ahead of his return to the Etihad with Burnley on Saturday.
Walker won six Premier League titles and the Champions League among 15 major trophies during an eight-year spell under Guardiola between 2017 and his exit earlier this year.
"Absolutely, one of the greatest fullbacks ever," said Guardiola at his pre-match press conference.
"The right-back that defined our time here in the last nine or 10 years so pretty sure he’ll get the credit from our fans cause he deserves it.
“One of the greatest. in terms of consistency and no injuries, played every game, incredible figure in the locker room."
Walker initially left City on loan in January to join AC Milan before a permanent move to Burnley in July.
The 35-year-old was one of the scapegoats for City's fall from grace during a sustained loss of form last season.
But Guardiola said that should not affect his legacy as one of the club's all-time greats.
"I don't analyse for one week or one month. Eight years has been with us and in eight years, six Premier League, Champions League, 15 titles.
"Always being there. Being there in the good moments and bad moments.
"Of course, the last season was tough for everyone, for him, for all of us, but I don't judge behaviour for a short period of time. He was unbelievable (for us)."
Guardiola confirmed that Erling Haaland will be fit to start on Saturday after shrugging off a back problem that forced him off during last weekend's 1-1 draw at Arsenal.
G. Santana--JDB
