ILKAY GUNDOGAN blocked Rodri from taking Manchester City’s penalty against Aston Villa this afternoon.
Pep Guardiola’s side were awarded a spot kick while leading 2-0 after a challenge on Jack Grealish.
Midfielder Rodri, having netted City’s first of the afternoon, was keen to take the penalty.
But skipper Gundogan stopped him from doing so, wrestling the ball from him and giving it to appointed taker Riyad Mahrez.
The Algerian made no mistake from 12 yards, putting his side 3-0 up on the stroke of half-time.
Following the 3-1 win, Rodri and Gundogan, scorer of City’s second goal, were interviewed together by Sky Sports.
Mentioning the incident, the former explained: “It was clear, and the captain decides, I have to accept the decision.
“He just said Riyad is the normal shooter, but I just asked because I was filled with confidence in that moment, but I understand and accept the decision.”
On whether Prem top scorer Erling Haaland should have taken it, Rodri added: “I don’t know, it depends on the coach who decides before the game, and it was Riyad.
“We have good shooters even though we have been very light this season with penalties.
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“But it is something we have to be ready to go because it can make the difference sometimes.”
Ollie Watkins pulled one back for Villa in the second half, but City held out for a 3-1 triumph.
Their victory takes them to within three points of leaders Arsenal ahead of their meeting at the Emirates on Wednesday night.
Guardiola and Co have been dealt a blow, however, with Haaland having had to be withdrawn at half time with an apparent thigh injury.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
