Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has provided a fresh update on his squad’s fitness situation ahead of their crucial Premier League clash against Newcastle United this weekend.
City head into the encounter in strong spirits as they continue their push at the top end of the table. They currently sit second in the Premier League and are chasing down leaders Arsenal in the title race.
Ahead of Newcastle, the biggest boost for the Citizens comes in attack, with Erling Haaland set to return to action after recovering from a knock that ruled him out of last weekend’s FA Cup clash against Salford.
The Norwegian striker has been pictured back in training, and Guardiola has confirmed that he is back in contention for selection.
There is also positive news on the flanks, as Guardiola confirmed that Savinho is “ready” to return from a thigh injury and is available for selection this weekend.
However, the City boss revealed that Jeremy Doku is “not ready” to make his comeback, with the winger still recovering from a calf problem.
Doku has been sidelined since his impressive first-half display in City’s Champions League win over Galatasaray at the end of January, while Savinho has been absent since New Year’s Day, when City were held to a goalless draw by Sunderland in the league.
Elsewhere in the squad, young defender Max Alleyne could return to the matchday squad after being forced off with a knock during City’s FA Cup win over Salford.
However, Josko Gvardiol remains a long-term absentee with a tibial fracture, while Mateo Kovacic continues his recovery from an ankle injury, with hopes of a return to first-team training in the coming weeks.
Man City head into this weekend’s clash with Newcastle knowing that victory would move them to within touching distance of Arsenal, who were held to a 2-2 draw by bottom-placed Wolverhampton Wanderers in midweek.
