Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini says Arsenal defender Johan Djourou is emerging as one of their best players.

Mancini dispatched trusted reserve-team coach Attilio Lombardo to Anfield to run the rule over the Gunners three weeks ago.

And Lombardo's report suggested City need to be very wary.

"Arsenal are very strong on the counter-attack," said Mancini.

"I watched the game against Liverpool on TV and they played really well.

"They have two important players, Cazorla and Podolski, who are very good and Johan Djourou maybe. He didn't score but he is a good player.

"We should pay attention because their counter-attack will be very strong."