Pep labels Bernando 'irreplaceable' after Manchester derby masterclass

Pep Guardiola labelled Bernando Silva as "irreplaceable" after his excellent showing during Manchester City's dominant 3-0 derby win over Manchester United. 

The Portuguese midfielder was in sensational form at Old Trafford, with a delightful cross for Erling Haaland's second of the match capping off an electric display. 

Silva was strongly linked with a move away from the Etihad last summer before the 29-year-old signed a new three-year deal to remain with Guardiola's men.

On his star midfielder, Guardiola told Sky Sports: "I could stay here and talk for 10 minutes on what Bernardo Silva means for me and our team. 

"He is a player that is beyond good in all departments — solidarity, intelligence, he understands everything. 

"We are in love with him. The problem is he has no big cars, he dress maybe not for high style.

"He is humble and everybody loves him in the locker room. We were lucky not to lose him — he is irreplaceable. 

"I know he is happy here."

Silva was understandably delighted with the derby victory after City secured their second straight win following defeats to Arsenal and Wolves earlier this month.

He said: "It was good game for us. Apart from a few simple balls we lost, we didn't give them much to counter. 

"The first 30 minutes of the second half, we were really good. The way we pressed, what we lacked against Arsenal, we were fabulous. 

"When we come to these places, like Anfield and Old Trafford, we know what teams are waiting for — for us to lose the ball and counter. 

"It is about the build up, not losing simple balls, controlling the game, and being slow in the first metres of our half and goal kicks. 

"After then, it is about breaking through to attack. It's never easy to come here and beat this team. 

"It is definitely one of the best wins. To win 3-0 away, with this crowd, I think it is definitely one of the best performances."