VIDEO: Pochettino praises Sterling's performance against Man City

Rodri's late equaliser extended Manchester City's year-long unbeaten record at home but a 1-1 draw against Chelsea on Saturday handed Liverpool and Arsenal a huge boost in the Premier League title race.

Raheem Sterling gave Chelsea a first-half lead on his return to the Etihad and City were headed to a first defeat on home soil for 34 games until Rodri's deflected effort seven minutes from time.

"His experience is important and an offensive player always needs to score to feel confident. He was working really hard for the team, defending well, he was always in the position to help the team and making the effort to be in a position to help the defensive line and Chilwell on the side," said Pochettino.

"It was such an important performance. I am so happy he helped us get a good point in a good performance for us," he concluded.