Akanji, Ake, Stones - Man City injury latest and return dates ahead of Manchester United derby

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is down to just three fit senior defenders for the visit of rivals Manchester United this weekend.

The Blues can call upon Kyle Walker, Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias but Rico Lewis is suspended following his red card at Crystal Palace. Manuel Akanji, Nathan Ake and John Stones are all sidelined, with Oscar Bobb and Rodri long term absentees as City continue to suffer with injuries.

Guardiola spoke of the heavy schedule decimating his squad during the build up to the derby and here's the latest from the Etihad treatment table ahead of Sunday's showdown.

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Injury: Abductor

What we know: The City boss said Akanji was just battling through fitness issues having been withdrawn at half time in the win over Nottingham Forest. Guardiola has clarified the injury is an abductor.

Potential return date: Aston Villa (A) December 21

Injury: Hamstring

What we know: Ake was forced off late on in the win over Forest with a hamstring injury. There were fears it would be serious but while it will keep him out on Sunday, it is understood not to be a long term issue but Guardiola was coy on when the defender could return.

Potential return date: Aston Villa (A) December 21

Injury: Unknown

What we know: Kovacic returned from Nations League duty with Croatia carrying an injury but was back in the squad against Juventus and could feature this weekend.

Potential return date: Manchester United (H) December 15

Injury: Unknown

What we know: He was only able to play 45 minutes against Spurs before coming off and has missed out on a place in the last two squads. City