Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola admits he's eager to see Sergio Aguero back in action.

His latest absence is due to a positive coronavirus test, which followed immediately after a period of self-isolation due to a close contact with someone who had one.

Guardiola is certain the 32-year-old can still play a major role in his side's quest for honours, although whether he can make the same immediate impact as Vincent Kompany, whose memorable goal against Leicester effectively won the title in 2019, is open to debate.

"I'm so optimistic that he will give us the last months, from February or March, and he'll help us in the decisive moments and make the difference," said Guardiola. "I am so confident it's going to happen.

"Hopefully it's going to happen like Vincent but he had quality of having two months out, then going out and playing well.

"Sergio needs the special sharpness and steps to score a goal but we'll see him on the training pitch and know if he's fit or not. Hopefully he can help us because he is one of the best strikers ever – not just in England, I mean ever."