Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has heaped praise on versatile defender Nathan Ake.

The Dutchman is a bit part player at City since arriving at the start of last season.

However, Ake has shown a propensity to fill in at centre-back or left-back when necessary.

Ake was outstanding for City in their 2-0 win over Burnley on Saturday in the Premier League.

"Nathan is an alternative (at left-back). He is not a left-back to do overlaps…he is not just this type of guy," Guardiola said at his post-match press conference.

"But he is so focused, so concentrated. He is an intelligent guy and on Saturday our build-up was with three at the back with Aymer more in the centre and John more on the right. It suited us perfectly.

"Against a team like Burnley, they are strong in the air and at set pieces and corners and it helped to have a player Nathan alongside John, Aymer and Rodri then Ferna in the last few minutes.

"He's a joy to have him - Nathan is a great guy.

"He always trains well and is loved by the team. This type of person when I can give them minutes, I am really pleased for them."