How Man City could line up in Premier League clash vs Southampton

After passing their midweek Champions League assignment with flying colours, Manchester City are back in Premier League action this weekend with a tricky match-up against Southampton.

Pep Guardiola's side have enjoyed a dream week since returning from the international break, defeating Manchester United and FC Copenhagen 6-3 and 5-0 respectively at the Etihad Stadium. Southampton are likely to put up a stronger fight, however; City were unable to beat Ralph Hasenhuttl's side in the Premier League last season, drawing 0-0 at the Etihad before salvaging a 1-1 draw at St Mary's.

Kyle Walker will be unavailable for the contest, as the England right-back underwent surgery this week on the groin injury he sustained in the Manchester derby. Like Kalvin Phillips - who is recovering from shoulder surgery - he faces a race to be fit for the World Cup. John Stones is also out, although he should return to action soon.

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Erling Haaland was withdrawn at half-time on Wednesday night, but Guardiola confirmed that was to give him a rest, not because of injury. He'll be hoping to score a hat-trick for the fourth consecutive home league game.

With that in mind, here's how our City writers think Guardiola should set his team up on Saturday. You can have your say by using our team selector tool below.

Alex Brotherton

With Joao Cancelo shifting across to right-back to cover for Walker, I think that Sergio Gomez will come in on the left. While Guardiola hasn't started the Spaniard much so far this season, he impressed in his cameo against United and against Copenhagen on Wednesday.

Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake could return to the line-up after