Mahrez immediately named on bench for Manchester City clash

Claude Puel was being sneaky.

After suggesting Riyad Mahrez wasn't ready for first-team inclusion following his self-imposed exile from the club, the Algerian was selected on Leicester City's bench for Saturday's trip to Manchester City.

Pep Guardiola's outfit was heavily linked to Mahrez in the January transfer window, reportedly lodging bids in excess of £50 million for the winger, but refused to meet a valuation that was apparently as high as £95 million.

(Courtesy: @LCFC)

Mahrez was subsequently away from the squad for two matches, although he insists Leicester knew of his whereabouts during his absence. His decision to skip training until his return on Friday split opinion, with some slamming a lack of professionalism from the 26-year-old while others showed sympathy for him not being granted a big move after producing such sterling service for Leicester.

For the host, Oleksandr Zinchenko was chosen at left-back in lieu of Danilo, who was selected on a youthful bench featuring Brahim Diaz, fit-again Phil Foden, and Lukas Nmecha. John Stones was also among the substitutes after his layoff with a hamstring complaint.