Pep Guardiola faces an anxious wait on Sergio Aguero’s fitness, with the Manchester City striker’s availability this weekend touch and go.
Aguero has been suffering from adductor muscle tightening and is desperate to play some part against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
Guardiola was warned against using the Argentine against Bournemouth last weekend and he also sat out victory at Watford on Tuesday night.
Club doctors told Guardiola that the 30-year-old risked a serious injury if he competed last week and it is hoped the period of rest since has seen the issue settle down.
Aguero realises he needs to rest up but on Thursday still retained hope of being included in the City squad.
City will know more later on Friday after their final training session before heading to the capital to take on Maurizio Sarri’s Chelsea.
Gabriel Jesus has been criticised after a stuttering run in front of goal this season and is likely to carry the burden of attacking responsibility regardless of whether Aguero makes it or not.
Guardiola was pleased with Jesus’ performance in midweek although accepts that the Brazil international needs a goal.
Meanwhile, Kevin De Bruyne also remains a doubt as he makes his comeback from a second knee injury of the season.