Man City handed second key injury blow ahead of Newcastle United FA Cup clash as Liverpool & Arsenal watch on

Newcastle United have been handed a potential boost at Manchester City's expense. The Magpies take on City this weekend in the FA Cup quarter-finals, and the competition is the last chance for Eddie Howe's men to win silverware.

It has been a disappointing season so far for Newcastle, but a win this weekend and a second Wembley appearance in as many years would be a huge boost for Eddie Howe and his men. The problem is that Premier League champions and title contenders City stand in their way, and at the Etihad Stadium no less.

The one saving grace for Newcastle could come in the form of an injury picked up by one of City's most influential players. Belgium boss Domenico Tedesco has confirmed that Kevin De Bruyne will not link up with his national team for the upcoming international window, which begins after this weekend, due to a 'minor injury'.

He said: "He’s been playing with a minor groin issue during the last games. Yesterday I spoke to the doctor and Kevin and we decided that the risk is too big. It's better to give him time to recover well at City and then have him ready for the Euros.“

That suggests De Bruyne will not be involved against Newcastle this weekend, adding to his injury troubles this season. The Midfielder has already missed much of the season after suffering a serious injury earlier in the campaign. Though, the midfielder did take a positive outlook on the long-term injury he battled through, saying: "It's not like I needed a break but I took it, to turn a disadvantage into an advantage," De Bruyne said.

"When I reflect on my career, playing the last 10 years non-stop with a short break, maybe it was good for me to reset a little bit in a way and take care of myself when it is not really possible during the year. I hoped I could work hard and come back in a good way and I feel that I'm doing that but obviously I need to progress."

First-choice goalkeeper Ederson is already set to miss out this weekend after going off injured in City's 1-1 draw with Premier League title rivals Liverpool at Anfield.