Manuel Pellegrini has let Arthur Masuaku know that his performance against Brighton has not gone unnoticed.

And that may well have put the wing back’s place in jeopardy against Spurs at the London Stadium tomorrow (Sat).

The boss said:  “I knew about Aaron (Cresswell) when I was here with Man City.

“Arthur is maybe a more attacking player but he has to improve a lot defending so we have in that position very good cover.”

Masuaku may not be available anyway given that he received a minor injury whilst away on international duty  with the manager adding: “He worked today (Thursday) with the squad and we’ll see what will happen.”

It’s unusual for a manager to speak in public terms about a player’s failings but the Chilean has not been slow to drop players after poor performances as Declan Rice and Carlos Sanchez can confirm after the game at Anfield and against Wolves at home respectively.”