Champions League LIVE: Young Boys vs Aston Villa, Rodri claims ‘players close to strike’ as Alisson hits out

Young Boys vs Aston Villa

Manchester City's squad came within hours of going on strike on Monday with Rodri revealing the players were left 'angry and frustrated' after being banned from the club's Christmas party at the weekend.

Assistant boss Rodolfo Borrell was sent to take charge of the press conference ahead of the Champions League clash with RB Leipzig due to Pep Guardiola testing positive for Covid.

And the Spaniard gave an insight into the events that unfolded at the City Football Academy after the players were told they could not attend the bash following their 7-0 win over Leeds on Saturday.

Rodri speaks out

"We were a little bit surprised with the decision," said Rodri.

"We didn't expect it, especially after the game against Leeds when we knew we were going to have a day off.

"We were angry and frustrated because we felt like we deserved to celebrate altogether as a team. It's something that we've been doing for many years and it's a special moment for us."

Alisson hits out

Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker has hit out at suggestions that the Reds are not playing well enough after being held to a 1-1 draw by Tottenham on Saturday.

The Brazilian stopper kept his place in the team ahead of Caoimhin Kelleher, who has started the last two Premier League games.

But Alisson was unable to prevent Spurs from taking the lead through Son Heung-min and the Reds had to rely on a late strike from Luis Diaz to earn a point.