Not long ago, Fabian Delph would have been regarded as a fringe member of Manchester City's team.

The midfielder has struggled with injury problems ever since he made the switch to the Etihad Stadium from Aston Villa in 2015.

Since Pep Guardiola took over as manager the following year, Delph has found his feet once again.

This season in particular, the 28-year-old has thrived in the left-back position - an unfamiliar place for the Englishman.

Guardiola trusted Delph with the role after summer signing Benjamin Mendy was struck down with a long-term injury, and the manager made the right choice.

Delph has shown discipline in defence, and has also been a creative outlet on the flank moving forward.

On Sunday, despite already having the Premier League title in the bag, City did not back down against Swansea City as they romped to a 5-0 victory, with their makeshift left-back playing an important role.

Delph stats v Swansea City

The former Leeds United player linked up perfectly with David Silva before setting up Raheem Sterling for City's second goal.

In addition, Delph's passing throughout the game was almost perfect, and he had more touches on the ball than Kevin De Bruyne (68), who was influential in the fixture.

Whether Delph can keep hold of the left-back spot following Mendy's return and City's summer of spending remains to be seen, but he is certainly making a strong case.

[ad_pod ]