Manchester City don’t have too many injury concerns ahead of the weekend’s Premier League fixture against Nottingham Forest.
But before that game, Pep Guadiola’s side will be concentrating on what could be a crucial top of the table clash against Arsenal tonight (Wednesday). A win for Man City would see them overtake the Gunners at the summit of the league, although the Gunners do have one game in hand over their rivals.
One major doubt for that game for Man City is star striker Erling Haaland. The Norwegian international was taken off at half time of the 3-1 win over Aston Villa as a precaution, raising doubt over his availability for the games against Arsenal and Forest at the weekend.
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Ahead of the game, Guardiola delivered a vague update as to his availability . “If the result [against Villa] was more tight then maybe I don't do it (take him off at half-time),” he said.
“I don't think he's injured but we will see. Hopefully he can be in for Wednesday. If it is a risk or he is not ready, he's not going to play."
It has since been revealed that the striker has been training in preparation for the game against Arsenal. He travelled with the City squad down to London ahead of the game, and has been named in the starting line up.
His inclusion against Arsenal means that barring picking up another injury against the Gunners, the striker should be available for the clash against Forest at the City Ground.
One player who won’t be available to Guardiola is central defender John Stones. The England international has picked up a thigh injury and is not expected to be available until the start of next month. Stones has been a regular in Man City’s starting line-up when fit and available.
A fiery game against Arsenal could possibly bring up some more injury worries for City ahead of the weekend’s game. With so much riding on the match against Arsenal, players from both teams are not likely to hold back.
It’s a clash that Forest fans could be watching closely as the Reds’ squad sit with their feet up ahead of the weekend.
What are your predictions for the game against Man City? Tell us in the comments section
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