Manchester City have suffered another injury blow with defender Ruben Diaz ruled out for up to four weeks.
Manager Pep Guardiola revealed that the Portugal international suffered a muscle problem in the closing stages of last week’s derby defeat to Manchester United.
Guardiola told a press conference: “After 75 minutes against United he felt something.
He is strong and wanted to stay on the field, but now he is 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 in time for Christmas.
Guardiola said of Englishman Stones: “Of course it’s important that he’s back and at his best.
“When you’re injured for three or four weeks, you need time to get back to your best, but of course it’s important. An important player for us for many years. “
Rico Lewis returns from suspension but centre-back Nathan Ake is still out with a thigh problem, while Rodri and Oscar Bobb are long-term absentees.
