Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is ready to keep Fernandinho in defence.
Guardiola admits he is unlikely to move the Brazilian back into midfield because he has adapted to playing in the back four so well.
City were criticised after their loss at Liverpool a fortnight ago, with suggestions Fernandinho's presence was being missed in midfield, but Guardiola seems unlikely to change things.
A sarcastic Guardiola said: "If we lose he plays s***. I know that. In Anfield he was the best central defender we played there, in the back four. He played a disaster. I know how this job works.
"But he was incredible in Anfield, he was incredible on Saturday (against Chelsea)."
He added: "If Rodri and (Ilkay) Gunodgan are fit, I don't think so.
"I like Fernandinho in that position. With the problems we have I like it.
"I know he can play (in midfield) but we have Gundogan, and I trust him a lot, and Rodri."