Following their tense 1-nil Premier League win over Bournemouth Manchester City return to FA Cup action this week to take on Luton Town. The FA Cup holders will travel to Kenilworth Road to take on Luton Town in the fifth round of the competition. Here is a look at the injury status of the Manchester City squad ahead of another big game on City’s schedule.
The FA Cup holders appear to be approaching full strength with key players returning from injury. Heading into Saturday’s games there were doubts over the fitness of Jack Grealish, Kevin De Bruyne and Josko Gvardiol.
Kevin De Bruyne and Jack Grealish were both on the bench at the Vitality Stadium. De Bruyne played the final 10 minutes while Grealish was an unused substitute. It is positive news for Pep Guardiola as the champions will need every player available as they bid to defend the treble this season. The pair could feature at Kenilworth Road as the FA Cup holders attempt to progress to the sixth round of the competition.
Croatian defender Josko Gvardiol looks likely to miss the game against Luton Town. The defender is currently sidelined due to an ankle ligament injury. Speaking before his team’s win at the Vitality Stadium the City manager believed Gvardiol is possibly another week away from returning from injury. Guardiola said: “I think this week no, but it’s closer. I don’t know exactly I didn’t speak to the doctors but they are closer.”
It is crucial that Manchester City have everyone available
Manchester City defender Ruben Dias spoke of the importance of the treble winners having a full squad available. After seeing Jack Grealish return to the City squad from injury Dias explained why it is crucial for City to have their full squad available. He said: “The more players we have available – the bigger and stronger we get. Obviously, [we’re] very happy to have him back after the injuries. For us, to have the whole team is a dream because we can actually reach our full potential.”
With the champions still in three competitions this season it is imperative that they have a full squad available. With only Josko Gvardiol appearing to be unavailable for the FA Cup tie against Luton Town the FA Cup holders are approaching full fitness at a crucial point of the season.
