MANCHESTER City boss Pep Guardiola admitted he is pleased to see Taylor Harwood-Bellis "settling" into life as a Premier League defender.

Harwood-Bellis, 22, previously worked under Guardiola during the early stages of his career having graduated from City's academy.

Harwood-Bellis went on to make eight senior appearances for boyhood club City after making his debut under Guardiola in 2019.

The England under-21 captain joined Southampton on a permanent deal this summer, ending his 16-year association with City.

Asked by the Daily Echo for his view on the defender's development, Guardiola said: "He's top. I'm so happy for him because he is a lovely guy.

Taylor Harwood-Bellis (centre) while playing for Manchester CityTaylor Harwood-Bellis (centre) while playing for Manchester City (Image: Martin Rickett/PA) "I'm happy that he is settling into the Premier League. He's an incredible threat for Southampton from set-pieces.

"The composure when he has the ball - I think the manager insists it doesn't matter how well you play, you have to be close. You have to move different lines.

"Aaron Ramsdale was magnificent with the ball today, how good he linked inside and how good he linked lateral ball.

"I showed many images to the team to warn them. I said 'Guys, today you will do the right thing in moments and you will not be able to take the ball.'

"We had to be strong in the mind to continue because they are good."