Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has praised the performance of Riyad Mahrez following the club’s 3-1 league triumph over Everton on the road. The Citizens had a tough test of their title credentials against the Toffees but Mahrez scored a vital free-kick in the 71st minute which provided them with the key advantage in the contest.

Speaking after the game, Guardiola said that the African Cup of Nations provided plenty of confidence for Mahrez, considering Algeria went all the way to win the trophy. He added to praise the attacker’s mentality and said that he has something special after delivering when the Citizens needed him the most.