Antoine Semenyo is always there to score - Pep Guardiola praises Ghana forward after scoring again in Man City win at Newcastle

Pep Guardiola has lavished praise on Antoine Semenyo after the Ghanaian forward maintained his blistering start to life at Manchester City with another influential display in the Carabao Cup.

Semenyo, who completed a five-and-a-half-year move from AFC Bournemouth earlier this season, opened his City goalscoring account against Exeter City at the weekend and carried that form into Tuesday night’s semi-final first leg against Newcastle United.

The 26-year-old struck the opening goal in City’s 2-0 win at St James’ Park, breaking the deadlock shortly after the interval before Ryan Cherki sealed the victory in stoppage time.

Guardiola acknowledged his side struggled for fluency in the opening half but was encouraged by the improvement after the restart, particularly in attack.

“They-Semenyo and Erling Haaland- were not completely connected. They were not ready to get that ball," Guardiola told Sky Sports after the game.

“Second half, they were ready. We know Bournemouth did an incredible job with him [Semenyo], and every time the ball arrives at him, he is always there."

Semenyo appeared to have added a second goal, only for it to be ruled out following a VAR review. Guardiola offered a measured response to the decision, stressing the need for focus as the competition reaches its decisive stage.

“Four officials and VAR were not able to make the decision; they had to go to the referee. We know how it works, and that will make us stronger. It’s the semi-finals. We play a lot to reach the finals," he added.

The goal took Semenyo’s tally to 12 in all competitions this season, and he will look to sustain his impressive momentum when City turn their attention to Saturday’s Manchester derby against Manchester United.