Gareth Southgate on the defensive as Man City handed further injury worry amid Kyle Walker and Akanji concern

Manchester City are facing a defensive injury crisis as their bid to land a second successive treble was hit by another blow.

Pep Guardiola is already sweating on the fitness of Kyle Walker and Manuel Akanji after the duo withdrew from the England and Switzerland squads earlier this week - but the City boss was handed further concern following the Three Lions draw with Belgium on Tuesday night.

There were just nine minutes on the clock when John Stones limped out of the action and was replaced by Liverpool’s Joe Gomez. The former Everton centre-back will now return to City and will be assessed as Guardiola’s side prepare for a crucial home double header against Arsenal and Aston Villa over the next week.

Speaking after the game, England manager Gareth Southgate said: "The first game wasn't a game which was a high level in terms of intensity. We've done exactly what Holland did with Virgil van Dijk and Nathan Ake and what Norway did with Martin Odegaard and Erling Haaland. It only seems to fall on us when there's a question on that.

"Of course, we're disappointed if he's got a problem. It looks like it's in the abductor area. He came in on the back of not playing for two weeks, so it's not about overload. But I hate sending players back to their clubs injured."

There are high hopes Guardiola could receive some positive news ahead of Sunday’s home game with leaders Arsenal as goalkeeper Ederson and influential midfielder Kevin de Bruyne are both expected to return to contention after overcoming thigh and groin injuries respectively.

Speaking about the duo prior to the international break, Guardiola said: “Eddie is getting better. Hopefully, he'll be ready after the international break.

"Tomorrow (against Newcastle), for sure (he is out). He'll have two weeks off (and) then we'll see how he feels - hopefully, as soon as possible. Kevin is not ready. He already played in Anfield with some problems. But he's getting better. He's not ready for tomorrow; it's better to take care.”