Man City news: Pundit blown away by ‘perfect’ Rico Lewis after what he saw in person
Noel Whelan has backed Rico Lewis to have a long career for Man City and England after impressing on his first Premier League start against Leeds United.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 18-year-old has got “everything a full-back needs”.
Lewis played 68 minutes during the 3-1 win over the Whites – following starts in the League Cup and Champions League earlier this season.
As per Opta, he right-back is the youngest Englishman to start a Premier League match since Micah Richards in 2006.
The starlet, who came through the ranks at the Etihad Campus, is capped at Under-18 level by England.
Joao Cancelo and Kyle Walker were benched for the Leeds United clash following their involvement at the World Cup in Qatar.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “From what I saw the other night, he’s got everything a full-back needs.
“He didn’t look out of place at all. He can get forward, he can defend – he’s very comfortable on the ball, which is perfect for Pep.
“They’re all capable on the ball and he looks very assured.
“He’s definitely one for the future in terms of Man City and England – because I was very impressed with how he hit the ground running.
“He’s a fantastic young player.”
Man City sit second in the Premier League, five points adrift of leaders Arsenal.
Pep Guardiola’s side may soon be looking for a long-term replacement for Walker, with the 32-year-old’s contract set to expire in 2024.
In other news, pundit claims Kalvin Phillips has just been “slaughtered by Man City” – “this will define him”.