Manchester City have suffered another injury blow with defender Ruben Dias ruled out for up to four weeks.
Manager Pep Guardiola revealed the Portugal international sustained a muscular problem in the latter stages of last week’s derby defeat to Manchester United.
Guardiola said at a press conference: “After 75 minutes against United he felt something.
“He’s strong and wanted to stay on the pitch, but now he’s injured.”
City have been without key players for most of the season – most notably Ballon d’Or winner Rodri – but should have John Stones and Manuel Akanji back over the Christmas period.
Guardiola said of England man Stones: “Of course it is important he is back and at his best.
“When you are injured for three or four weeks you need time to get back to your best but of course he is important. An important player for us for many years. ”
Rico Lewis returns from suspension but centre-back Nathan Ake is still sidelined with a thigh problem while Rodri and Oscar Bobb are long-term absentees.
