Guardiola accepts responsibility for Iheanacho’s fewer games

.To talk about Nigerian’s future end of the season

.Kelechi may join Hoffenheim on loan

By Taofeek Babalola

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has revealed that it was his personal decision not to select Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho for more matches this season despite acknowledging his talent.

The 20-year-old has made 19 appearances in the Premier League this season - albeit just five starts - after falling behind Gabriel Jesus in the pecking order under Guardiola.

The Nigeria international impressed under Manuel Pellegrini last year, recording eight goals in 26 appearances, and while Guardiola is said to admire his attitude, there are doubts over whether he fits the Spaniard's style of play.

Also, several players not out of contract this summer face uncertain futures, including Iheanacho and midfielder Fernando.

But the former Barcelona manager says he will talk about Iheanacho’s future at the end of the season, despite already deciding who to keep and who to offload.

Guardiola said: “Kelechi is a young player who is clever in the box, he is strong, fast and has a sense of goal. He is not playing more or less because of my decision, and everybody can discuss that. At the end of the season we will talk about Kelechi and individual players.”

However, Hoffenheim are keen to take the youngster on a loan deal next season after an impressive campaign that has seen them secure Champions League football for 2017-18, according to The Sun.

The newspaper claims that a move would suit both clubs, while Iheanacho views the potential transfer as an opportunity to rediscover his best form.

Iheanacho joined the City academy in 2014.