Guardiola in need of instant success

PEP Guardiola may expect Gabriel Jesus, Leroy Sane and Raheem Sterling to form Manchester City's future attack - but has warned results are needed quickly.

Jesus, 19, looked impressive on full debut at Crystal Palace last weekend while 21-year-old Sane, after a slow start, has excelled with goals in his last three appearances.

England forward Sterling, 22, has responded well to Guardiola's arrival and his goalscoring display in the 3-0 win at Selhurst Park was one of a number of fine performances.

Guardiola hailed the trio after the game but has now reminded them high standards are required almost immediately.

DANGEROUS

He said: "These three players will be the future in the next three or four years, I'm pretty sure of that.

"Rash (Sterling) is playing every three days at a high level, has scored a lot of goals, assists, and is dangerous in the box.

"Gabriel is number nine for Brazil and Leroy, we spent a lot on him because we believe he has the potential.

"But in the big clubs you have to achieve results immediately and that's why they have to play well now, not in three years."

His delight with the three forwards was clear, although he noticeably did not mention Kelechi Iheanacho, even though the 20-year-old striker's name was included in the question that prompted the answer from the City manager. Iheanacho, despite a good strike rate, has started just nine games this season as Guardiola has looked elsewhere and opportunities could now be further limited by the arrival of Jesus.

Jesus, signed for £27million from Palmeiras, did not find the net at Palace but looked a serious threat in the attacking third as he took the place of the injured Sergio Aguero.

Guardiola, whose side take on West Ham tonight, admits it took Sane a little time to find his feet after his £37million move from Schalke last summer.

He said: "He's made a leap.

"He arrived a little bit like, 'Wow, where am I?' and sometimes for some players you can't forget that.

"He attacks and runs in behind like few players I have seen in my life. He's so, so good at attacking the space, he's really good with the ball and dribbling but still he has a lot of things to improve."

Midfielder Fernandinho is further on in his Manchester City career.

The 31-year-old has just one full season remaining on his contract but Guardiola hopes he will stay longer at the Etihad Stadium.

He said: "I am so happy with him and would be delighted if he continues for a long time here.

"It's not just in my mind but the club's mind. He's an important player for us."