Joleon Lescott says Pep Guardiola did not mean to disrespect Manchester City fans when he asked for a greater attendance during their clash with Southampton.

The manager was criticised after inviting fans to turn up in greater numbers for their Premier League showdown after 38,062 watched City beat RB Leipzig at the Etihad on Wednesday.

Lescott believes Guardiola could have articulated his point differently but understands the sentiment behind his comments – claiming the City boss was trying to ’emphasise the importance of the fans’.

Lescott said: ‘Understand Pep’s need to urge fans to come obvious it wasn’t a full capacity but I think he was trying to emphasise the importance they have and the role they play in helping lift the team up when the mood is subdued at times.

‘Possibly could have been articulated a little bit differently but I have that with my wife all the time but it’s one of those things that happen.

‘I don’t think there’s a thing between the fans and Pep. They enjoy each other and appreciate the part they play for the club going forward.

‘He didn’t (back down) but he was given an opportunity to articulate and explain what he meant a little bit more and I think he’s going down the route of the importance the fans play in success.

‘We’ve played a season without fans and now to see them back and now they realise every club how much they rely on them.’

Lescott’s comments came after Guardiola referenced the club’s atmosphere and attendances.

Sportsmail previously reported how City had received complaints from supporters following his latest comments.

‘Did I say after the game against Leipzig that I was disappointed because the stadium was not full? Interpretation is interpretation,’ added Guardiola, who also suggested ticket prices are too high at the top end of football.

‘That’s why I am asking for more quality over quantity — fewer games will be better for everyone,’ he said. ‘What I would love is the right prices for the fans but I’m not involved in that.’