Manchester City thumped Southampton 6-1 at the Etihad Stadium to move back to the summit of the Premier League table.

City were handed the lead after just six minutes when Wesley Hoedt turned the ball into his own net before Sergio Aguero, and David Silva made it three before the 20-minute mark. Danny Ings converted a penalty after being fouled by Ederson, but City’s dominance continued after the interval. A brace from Raheem Sterling along with an injury time goal from Leroy Sane ensured City leapfrogged Liverpool in the standings.

The Citizens look dominant once again under Guardiola, and the win against the Saints was the 12^th time under the Spaniard’s leadership that City have scored five or more goals. The former Barcelona manager has also managed to bring the best out of Sterling who is starting to look like a world-class winger under his guidance. Despite their form, reports suggest Guardiola still wants to sign a long-term replacement for Fernandinho in midfield.

One man he could target is Celta Vigo dynamo – Stanislav Lobotka. Valued at £22.5m by Transfermarkt, the 23-year-old has developed into a crucial player for the club since joining from Nordsjaelland last summer for just £4.5m. Lobotka made 38 appearances in La Liga last season as Celta proved to be the surprise package in Spain.

The Slovakian has made ten appearances so far this season, and his impressive performances have continued. He excels in a box-to-box role making him perfect for Guardiola’s system on Eastlands and would have no trouble fitting into his passing system; Lobotka has completed 89% of his passes so far this season. His tenaciousness and grit would add real steel to the City engine room and add another rotation option should Fernandinho be sidelined.

The Slovakia international remains a raw talent but could develop into a top midfielder under Guardiola’s guidance.

Manchester City fans, thoughts?