Rico Lewis reveals what Pep Guardiola would think of his new England role after Man City teenager starred at left back in win over Finland

Rico Lewis has revealed Pep Guardiola would ‘give him a bit of a crack’ if he played left-back for Manchester City, as he did in England’s win over Finland.

The 19-year-old proved his versatility again in only his second appearance for the Three Lions after interim manager Lee Carsley appointed him to start at centre-back.

Lewis impressed by often straying into midfield when England attacked and during one move he showed his passing ability by passing the ball to Trent Alexander-Arnold on the other wing.

At City, Lewis played more minutes as a teenager under Guardiola than any other youngster in the Spaniard’s managerial career. Lewis has warned he will not be given the same positional freedom when he returns to the Premier League.

The talented teenager is often deployed by Guardiola in midfield or as a left back in emergency situations, playing a more defensive role than the English fans saw at Wembley.

Lewis was deployed at full back and was cleared to play against Finland at Wembley

Lewis has now revealed what City manager Pep Guardiola (right) would likely say about his role with England

Lewis played the full match in England’s convincing UEFA Nations League win over Finland and explained why Guardiola wants his stars to play with more control against the Three Lions.

“No, I think Pep would attack me if I did that because he obviously wants to be as controlled as possible,” Lewis said.

“It was just in that moment. You can always trust your teammates on the other side to handle it if something happens.”

Meanwhile, Lewis’ rise through the England ranks has been carefully assisted by Carsley, under whom the City academy graduate shone for the under-21s before being promoted to the first team.

Carsley is currently serving as England manager on an interim basis while the Football Association continues to search for candidates to become Gareth Southgate’s permanent successor.

Lewis was given the nod to start against Finland by interim England manager Lee Carsley (right)

England’s convincing victories over both Ireland and Finland have further bolstered Carsley’s claim to take on the role permanently, with Lewis also speaking highly of the replacement coach.

‘He [Carsley] wants us to be the best we can be. He tries to get the best out of all of us.

‘There’s a lot of freedom, but it’s not just freedom — there’s a lot of structure to it as well.

“We have found the right balance and everyone is enjoying the football,” he added.