Team news from City | Kovacic back, Stones close to a start, Nunes out

John Stones is closing in on a return as we prepare to face Manchester City in the Premier League at the Etihad on Sunday (4.30pm).

The England international defender has been an unused substitute in City's last two games against Liverpool and RB Leipzig after a hip issue.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, City boss Pep Guardiola said on Stones: "He's much better, close to coming back." Asked if he would be in contention to start, he added: "He'll be with us, he'll be there."

Croatia midfielder Mateo Kovacic is also back in the frame after picking up an injury in City's 4-4 draw against his former club Chelsea before the international break, but Matheus Nunes remains sidelined. “Mateo trained well, but Matheus is still maybe days or weeks away," added Guardiola.

Meanwhile, Ange Postecoglou has given us an injury update on Rodrigo Bentancur and Richarlison ahead of Sunday's clash.