Pep Guardiola claimed David Silva could still play anywhere as he saluted a masterful display in Manchester City's 5-0 thrashing of Newcastle on Wednesday. 

The 34-year-old playmaker, who is leaving the club at the end of the season after a decade's outstanding service, starred with a goal and two assists as the Magpies were outclassed at the Etihad Stadium. 

Silva teed up Gabriel Jesus to begin the rout, curled home a brilliant free-kick for the fourth, and then played in Raheem Sterling to wrap up the scoring in a one-sided Premier League contest.

Unfortunately for the Spaniard, there were no fans in the ground to appreciate his performance, but Guardiola is determined a fitting tribute will be paid to Silva's when the time is right.

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The City manager said: "What we want is, when people come back to the Etihad Stadium, to do a farewell game for him, and to say hi to one of the legends of the club. 

"When we need to play in small spaces he is maybe the best. Moving between the lines I have never seen someone like him. 

"He came back from lockdown in incredible top form and with incredible rhythm. Of course, if he decides to play, he can play anywhere. There are no doubts about this."

Sky Sports