The Man City fans in the Transfer Tavern were so impressed with Fabian Delph earlier this season. The Englishman came in out of nowhere to fill a vital gap for the Citizens following the injury to Benjamin Mendy, and for a while he didn’t look back.

Providing consistency, class, composure and quality on the left-hand side of the defence, Delph has – without a doubt – been the breakout star under Pep Guardiola this season, and he deserves a lot of credit for that.

However, there have been signs over the last few weeks that he may not be a particularly good long-term solution for the Spanish boss. He’s had moments of madness, and in recent weeks his general form simply hasn’t been up to par. Lacking the quality that had previously made him great, it has become clear that he is a square peg in a round hole.

For Guardiola, then, it might be time to make a change. He hasn’t got many options, but if Delph keeps making mistakes, it could end his side’s heroic run, and that’s a problem.

With that said, Guardiola should start 1 of these 2 Man City players against Swansea City instead – agreed?

Danilo

This would be the most logical choice for Pep Guardiola. Though more natural on the right, Danilo has experience of playing on the left, and he has found game time tough to secure this season.

Unable to secure a regular starting berth, coming in in place of Fabian Delph could be the only option for the Brazilian defender this season.

He’s a very talented player, and so he’s got all the qualities needed, but Guardiola will need to be patient with him whilst he adapts to a new position.

Leroy Sane

This would be a very bold choice from Pep Guardiola, but it might be one that makes sense.

The traits that Delph has that makes him work as a left-back are very simple; he works hard by tracking back and tirelessly running, and he also knows when to get forward and when to defend. Sane may not be solid in that sense quite yet, but he could still certainly do a job in the position.

With his electric pace, relentless energy and his enthusiasm, the German could certainly put in a shift against Swansea City if needed.

If Guardiola is concerned about him in the role, which perhaps he should be given that he hasn’t really played there, then he could even opt for a strengthened defence, with three central defenders leading the way at the back to cover for him.

It’s a risk, but it could be a worthy one.