Newcastle United receive injury boost as Manchester City star man delays return

Kevin De Bruyne has admitted he expects to be named on the bench when Manchester City travel to St James’ Park this weekend.

Raucous cheers echoed around the Etihad when the Belgian made his first appearance since the opening day. A hamstring injury had ruled De Bruyne out but he returned as City battered Huddersfield Town 5-0 in the FA Cup.

It took the 32-year-old just 17 minutes to make an impact after coming off the bench, setting up Jeremy Doku for the final goal. Newcastle United supporters had begun to rue their luck at being the unfortunate side to face De Bruyne on his full return.

However, the midfielder opened up about his fitness post-match, confirming he is “nowhere near” the required level and should start on the bench against the Magpies. That news will sound music to Newcastle fans’ ears as they aim to capitalise on a resounding 3-0 win over bitter rivals Sunderland.

“I’m happy to be back and I felt good so I’m pleased about that but I’m still nowhere near where I need to be,” De Bruyne told reporters. “There will be moments where I want to play every game but I know in the back of my mind I need to take care of myself. I don’t expect to be playing too many games and Newcastle next week is a big game so I’ll expect to be back on the bench.”

Pep Guardiola had spoken before the game about Erling Haaland’s fitness, who has missed the last six games across all competitions with a foot injury. The Spaniard confirmed the goal machine was a doubt for the Huddersfield game - hinting towards a possible comeback at St James’ Park.

“Erling is a little better, so we need to be careful,” Guardiola said before the game. “(He’s had]) two or three sessions and feels good. Hopefully, (he can return soon). I don’t know for Sunday (against Huddersfield) or for Newcastle.”

John Stones is not expected to feature, with his injury-hit campaign continuing. The England centre-back picked up a foot injury at Goodison Park a fortnight ago and should miss the rest of January.

Manuel Akanji, Bernardo Silva and Kalvin Phillips missed the FA Cup triumph through illness but should return to the matchday squad. Sceptical Newcastle fans had hoped the latter’s omission was transfer-related given reports linking him with the Tyneside move.