Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has heaped praise on Ilkay Gundogan for his form this season.
Gundogan has been one of City's stand-out performers and currently tops the goalscoring chart with 16 and counting in all competitions.
“He deserves this role of leadership through what he has done on the pitch," Guardiola said.
“It is the best way to show his ability.
“I am delighted with the external recognition he gets now because he is scoring goals and making assists. He deserves it.
“I know how he behaved when he was injured and in bad moments. He is incredibly beloved because he is such an incredible guy.
“He thinks not just about himself but the team. He deserves what he builds. He is the same player.
“The year we won the second Premier League with 98 points, he was incredible as a holding midfielder.
“But now, of course, he is our top scorer and that's why he gets the recognition now he deserves."
