Pep Guardiola paid tribute to Southampton after Manchester City’s 1-0 win.

Cityzens pipped Liverpool to top spot after beating Saints thanks to Erling Haaland’s first-half strike.

The Norwegian’s goal ensured Southampton’s winless start continued, with Russell Martin’s side rooted to the bottom of the table.

However, Guardiola was on a free from the South Coast club and claimed they are “one of the best teams in the Premier League” in one area.

Spaindard told BBC Match of the Day: “The way they played, they are so demanding. They defend with the ball.

Pep Guardiola paid tribute to Southampton after Manchester City’s 1-0 win on Saturday

Saints remain rooted to the bottom of the table as their wait for a win continues

You can defend with the ball and they are really good (at it), one of the best in the Premier League.

– They didn’t create many chances, but we created a lot. Unfortunately, we couldn’t make the second one. Big credit to them – it wasn’t because we were sloppy or flat, I don’t get that feeling.

I think we were there and sometimes they were good. We have to accept that.’

Southampton are bottom with just one point after losing eight of their first nine games on their return to the top flight.

However, Martin insists he is “proud” of his players and they will learn from the latest defeat.

‘I’m proud of them. The courage they had and the build up was incredible. We had some big moments, so I’m proud of that too,” said the Southampton boss.

Erling Haaland scored the only goal of the match as City moved Liverpool up into first place

Saints boss Russell Martin says he is “proud” and the players will learn from the latest defeat

‘I think we had more (chances) than most to get here. The level of courage and intensity to run and play football our way was incredible.

“We will take a lot of faith from today. Not just the defence, the character after going 1-0 down early and the character to play the way we want.

“If we’re going to lose, at least we’re going to do it in a way that we can be proud of.”