Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola was delighted with Raheem Sterling after his hat-trick at West Ham.

Sterling started on the left of a front three at the London Stadium, with Gabriel Jesus playing through the middle, but Guardiola, who deployed the England international in a central role in the Community Shield, feels his No.7 can shine in that position.

“Since we started this season in China and the Community Shield he has scored one goal minimum every game.

“On the first day he played striker and for me striker will be an incredible position for him. He can play in three positions up front.

“They are incredibly talented players but they need the group, they need the team. When the team takes a step forward he plays better.

“But I know the special quality of the player, the consistent physicality and the finishing."