Man City dealt £144m injury blow v Newcastle United — with another a doubt

Manchester City are without three key players for this evening’s Premier League clash against Newcastle United - with another a doubt.

Pep Guardiola confirmed during Friday’s pre-match press conference that John Stones and Bernardo Silva won’t be available after setbacks in midweek.

Stones was absent from City’s opening day Premier League win at Burnley but returned to the matchday squad for Wednesday’s UEFASuper League win against La Liga side Sevilla.

The England international was expected to be involved for the visit of the Magpies but suffered an injury during training. Meanwhile, Silva is ill.

“Important players are not here. John is out, Bernardo is out. We need time,” said Guardiola. Asked for further detail on Stones, Guardiola said: “Last training he did not feel comfortable. I don’t know how long he will be out. Now we have a big, big problem especially for this game but in general.

“That is what it is. 4am time recovery, arrive here late. Today we cannot train. We don’t have time, I would love one more day. I accept this is the challenge. That’s why we won because we overcome those positions.”

That means Guardiola is without a £144m worth a talent when you factor in the transfer fees City paid for the trio.

Elsewhere, Ruben Dias is also a doubt as he recovers from a recent concussion. The Portugal international has been back in training but missed the last two matches.

Along with Kevin De Bruyne, that means City could have up to four absentees for this evening’s clash.

De Bruyne started the curtain raiser at Turf Moor but was forced off during the first half. Guardiola later confirmed the extent of the Belgian’s hamstring injury.

The former Barcelona manager said: “We have to decide if it’s surgery or not surgery but he will be out for a few months. It will be decided in the next few days. Surgery is surgery. He will be out for three or four months.

“The injury for Kevin is a sore blow for us. But at the same time we have to look forward. The skills of Kevin are irreplaceable but it’s an opportunity for others and I’m sure they will take it.”