Kalvin Phillips MUST move on as he is overlooked again by Pep Guardiola

If the penny hasn't dropped for Kalvin Phillips then it may never will. Overlooked by Pep Guardiola again, this time in favour of an 18-year-old.

That is meant as no disrespect to Rico Lewis, who is already a fine footballer fully deserving of his place in the Manchester City's starting XI.

Yet when you analyse Guardiola's selection, it's pertinent to stress the champions signed Phillips for £42million. To that end; the numbers aren't adding up for City or the player.

They haven't done for a very long time - and it's time all parties accept that and move on. How many more afternoons can Phillips spend twirling his thumbs on City's bench?

Even with Mateo Kovacic perilously close to being sent off following two Michael Oliver decisions that merely served to heap additional scrutiny on the issue of refereeing inconsistencies, Phillips remained in his seat.

He warmed up, briefly, in the second half but he was merely going through the motions. Indeed, when Kovacic was eventually replaced in the 68th minute, Mateus Nunes stepped in.

When Lewis was substituted, John Stones - a centre-back - took the teenager's place. What more is there left to say? Guardiola is making it as clear as he possibly can.

At the end of last season West Ham were lurking with intent. They weren't the only ones - with a host of clubs expecting Phillips to seek a move away.

But speaking at the end of last season, after making the grand total of two Premier League starts, Phillips was adamant he wanted to stay at the Etihad and fight for his place.

His sentiments were admirable. He looked at the first season struggles of Jack Grealish and sought inspiration. Stones was unfavored by Guardiola for a time - and look at him now.

But enough is enough. Phillips is