Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has suggested that David Silva will be left out of further matches as he continues to deal with problems relating to his personal life.

The Spaniard has featured just twice in the runaway Premier League leaders' last six matches due to his partner reportedly suffering issues in her pregnancy.

On Tuesday night, the midfielder played in City's 3-1 victory over Watford, and Guardiola has claimed that it will be Silva's decision whether or not he features in upcoming matches.

"We are very happy David is back, we don't know how long but he made another exhibition - he's essential, he showed how important he is for us," the City manager told reporters.

"He's free to stay or leave, it depends, he wants to stay because he enjoys it but family is the most important thing in life.

"It doesn't matter if we drop a lot of points because he's not here, I'd never push him. Some days he will be here some he will be out, it depends how his family is."

City have a 15-point advantage over the rest of the pack in the title race.