Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola says that he now considers Fernandinho to be a centre-half.
The Brazilian made his name as a defensive midfielder at City since joining the club from Shakhtar Donetsk in 2013.
He was considered a crucial part of both of Pep Guardiola’s title winning teams in the position, but he has played more as a centre-half this season.
This is due to the signing of Rodri from Atletico Madrid and an injury crisis at centre-half, allied with the departure of Vincent Kompany.
Guardiola says he now plans to use Fernandinho in defence on an ongoing basis after an impressive performance at centre-back against Chelsea on Saturday.
"If Rodri and [Ilkay] Gundogan are fit, I don’t think so," Guardiola said when asked if Fernandinho will move back into midfield. "I like Fernandinho in that position [centre-back]."
City’s victory sees them just about keep in touch with Liverpool at the top of the Premier League, who are nine points clear of the defending champions.