Anyone in the team can create chances, says Guardiola | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola says it doesn't matter who supplies Erling Haaland after Saturday's 0-0 draw with Southampton.

The Norwegian returned to the starting XI in the south coast encounter after more than a month out with an ankle injury.

With 26 shots on goal and more than 70% possession, it was a dominant performance against the already relegated Saints.

However, we weren't able to find the winner as we continue our hunt for Champions League qualification for next term.

Haaland was supported in attacking areas by the likes of Phil Foden, Kevin De Bruyne and James McAtee at St Mary's.

WATCH: Southampton 0-0 City: Brief highlights

With the No.9 unable to find the net on his return, Guardiola was asked whether natural wingers like Jeremy Doku or Savinho would have been able to create more.

The boss insisted that varies on game to game and that any player in his side is capable of producing chances for the striker.

"In games like today, maybe. Other games maybe not," he said.

"Erling needs people to deliver balls to him, it doesn't matter whether it comes from wingers, full-backs or attacking midfielders. All guys can do those balls."

Foden played 76 minutes in his first start since last month's draw at Manchester United.

And while he hasn't matched the heights of his 2023/24 campaign, Guardiola made it clear that isn't through lack of effort.

"It's not easy," he began.

"It's the type of game that Phil in the last seasons breaks down with his talent and intuition to shoot or assist when he’s close to the box. In the first half he was a little far away from Erling.

"To score a goal you have to be there. In the second half he was more active. Kevin with his talent delivered some balls and we had the chances but unfortunately we couldn’t score. "

WATCH: Watch: Guardiola reacts to Southampton draw

With two more Premier League assignments to come as well as next Saturday's FA Cup final, there's a lot left to play for.

Asked whether the Wembley showpiece next weekend had any bearing on his team selection, Guardiola insisted the tie didn't influence him.

"I didn’t think about it. The priority was the Premier League more than the FA Cup," he said.

"We have one or two days off now to refresh and then prepare for the final. We will see how the team is and we will see during the week."