Pep’s City leave it late

Paddy McNair’s own goal three minutes from time handed Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City a 2-1 win over Sunderland in his first game as head coach.

McNair, who had only been on the pitch for four minutes on his Sunderland debut having signed from Manchester United, nodded into the corner of his own net after Jesus Navas’ cross.

Earlier, Guardiola’s Premier League debut got off to the perfect start after four minutes as Sergio Aguero converted from the spot after Patrick van Aanholt had brought down Raheem Sterling.

City had most of the ball in both halves, but Sunderland equalised with 19 minutes remaining through Jermain Defoe’s tidy low finish inside the area, before the late own goal broke Sunderland’s hearts.

Guardiola’s City now face a tricky Champions League play-off round first leg at Steaua Bucharest on Wednesday, while David Moyes’ Sunderland host north-east rivals Middlesbrough next Sunday, live on Sky Sports.

Guardiola’s first selection decision was a controversial one, leaving England No 1 Joe Hart on the bench, and his replacement Willy Caballero was called into action early, beating away Van Aanholt’s 25-yard free-kick.

John Stones made his City debut alongside England team-mate Sterling, …

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