Walker and Bernardo to start - Man City fans' XI vs Newcastle United

Manchester City return to Premier League action on Saturday hoping to put the pressure on leaders Arsenal.

The Blues face Newcastle United in the early kick-off hoping to close the gap to two points ahead of the Gunners' match with Bournemouth at 3pm. City are fully aware of the threat the Magpies pose though and they will be wanting to prove a point after losing the Carabao Cup final last weekend.

Meanwhile, City are set to have a full squad to choose from after Pep Guardiola confirmed that John Stones, Stefan Ortega and Aymeric Laporte had all overcome their injuries and illnesses. With that in mind, the MEN Sport readers have picked their ideal starting line-up to face Eddie Howe's side this lunchtime.

ALSO READ: City vs Newcastle live updates

City's number one was unexpectedly called into action on Tuesday night following Ortega's injury. There was one or two nervy moments in the second half but not enough for him to be replaced for this clash.

Supporters have opted to revert to a back four this afternoon with Walker coming in for Rico Lewis. Although Stones and Laporte have both returned, City fans believe that it would be too big a risk to throw them straight back into the XI.

Dias, Akanji and Ake have all performed well in their absence and have been trusted to retain their places.

Kalvin Phillips was good at Ashton Gate this week but it would appear that City supporters are of the same mind as Guardiola when believing that Rodri is still the clear first choice in the defensive midfield position. De Bruyne returned with a goal in midweek and looked back to his best after suffering with illness.

Bernardo also returns to start with Blues fans agreeing that his performances have been worthy enough to keep him in