'If you're good enough to play, you will'
Manchester City defender Rico Lewis spoke to BBC Radio Manchester about the young players that were involved in Saturday's victory over Manchester United in the Community Shield.
"It's really nice for us all [Oscar Bobb, James McAtee, Nico O'Reilly] to come through it," said versatile England international Lewis.
"At one point in the academy, everyone thought that there was no pathway [to the first team] because City are so good and have all the resources. Over the years, so many people have come through and you can see the quality in everyone. It's really nice to share the pitch with them.
"They've all got enough quality to hold their own and that's why they're here. No one is playing for a present, if you're good enough to play, you will do."
On his motivations and hopes for the upcoming season, Lewis added: "It's similar to the past two seasons - to be as fit as I can, play as many games as I can and take the opportunities when I get them."