Manchester City defender John Stones has a place on the bench for Manchester City in their crucial top-of-the-table clash with Arsenal.
The England defender was withdrawn in the first half of England’s draw with Belgium during the week after going down holding his groin.
He joined fellow Manchester City star Kyle Walker in having to exit an England international early after the right-back limped off against Brazil.
During his press conference on Friday, manager Pep Guardiola seemed to rule both Stones and Walker out of today’s game.
But that seems to not be the case as the centre-back has in fact been included in the matchday squad.
John Stones was forced off with an injury during England’s drawwith Belgium
On friday an agitated Guardiola refused to comment on Gareth Southgate starting Stones twice in a matter of days for England. ‘Kyle and John are out,’ said the City manager. ‘It is what it is.’
Despite the positive news that John Stones is in the squad there is still some bad news for Manchester City with goalkeeper Ederson not fit enough despite training in the week.
The inclusion of Stones somewhat eases the injury fears that Guardiola faced had he missed out alongside Walker.
With the former Everton man on the bench the back-four for Manchester City consists of Manuel Akanji, Ruben Dias, Nathan Ake and Josko Gvardiol.
Meanwhile, Stefan Ortega will continue to deputise in goal for the injured Ederson.
There was also some good news for Mikel Arteta who is able to call upon Bukayo Saka despite the England winger having to withdraw from the squad without playing a single minute.
There are also reinforcements at the back, with Brazilian defender Gabriel available as well despite staying in London over the international break due to inury.