Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola was high in his praise of Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton ahead of their Saturday lunchtime Premier League clash.

Wharton has impressed since returning from an injury in late February. And has recently revealed his performances has caught the eye of England boss Gareth Southgate.

Asked about the former Blackburn midfielder in his press conference on Friday, Guardiola said:

"He is an excellent holding midfielder. With the previous manager, he was in the national team already.

"His impact has been really good coming from the Championship to the Premier League. He has a really good left foot and is a really good player."

Guardiola extended his praise to Palace as a club, with Guardiola winning two of the last four home games against the Eagles.

"It always has been difficult to play Crystal Palace here," Guardiola said.

"I admire them a lot, the manager, the way they play.

"The physicality they have, there's no doubts about that. But at the same time, I'm optimistic about the end to this season."