Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has hinted that he could field a strong side for the Carabao Cup quarter-final clash with Leicester at the King Power Stadium.
The defending champions are beset by injury issues ahead of a hectic run of fixtures but have been boosted by the potential return of Sergio Aguero and Kevin De Bruyne.
The Argentinian has not played since November 27 due to a groin problem while De Bruyne featured against Everton at the weekend but hasn’t started since November 1. Speaking ahead of the clash with the Foxes, Guardiola suggested some of his first-team stars will have to play due to an extensive list of absentees.
“We don’t have many players, we have a lot of injured players, some players who have played the last few games will have to play,” he said.
“It’s a chance to reach the semi-final and since I’ve been here we never drop one game, not even a friendly game.”
David Silva is out with a hamstring injury while Benjamin Mendy is continuing his recovery from a knee operation.
The Frenchman’s fitness issues mean Oleksandar Zinchenko could start at left-back, although Fabian Delph played there against the Toffees.
Vincent Kompany should partner John Stones in the heart of defence, having been left out of the squad at the weekend, while Danilo could replace Kyle Walker at right-back.
Claudio Bravo is sidelined with a long-term Achilles problem so Aro Muric will start in goal, having played both Carabao Cup fixtures this season.
Fernandinho has already made 23 appearances for City this campaign and is expected to be rested with Ilkay Gundogan most likely to deputise.
Meanwhile, Bernardo Silva is another who could be given the night off with Phil Foden possibly lining up next to De Bruyne.
Raheem Sterling has played 21 games for City in 2018/19 but started on the bench at the weekend, hinting he will get the nod tonight.
Riyad Mahrez may line up on the opposite flank against his former team while Aguero is in the frame to replace Gabriel Jesus up top.
