Manchester City defender Kyle Walker admits public criticism from manager Pep Guardiola has hurt him.

Last month, Guardiola stated Walker no longer suited his playing system.

"Did it hurt? Of course it did. I can't lie and say it didn't hurt. You start to doubt yourself," Walker said.

Walker has since played his way back into the starting XI.

"Sometimes, you don't always agree with certain opinions in football but what he has done for me and for Man City in the last six years has been nothing short of tremendous," Walker said.

"He is my boss and I am one of the captains. I needed to make sure my disappointment isn't shown on the team.

"I had to react as a professional.

"I had to go back to basics, to what I am good at and what he bought me for and prove him wrong. That is what I have done."