Man City early Aston Villa team news revealed plus Pep Guardiola's interesting Jack Grealish update

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has provided a fitness update ahead of tonight’s game with Aston Villa.

The City boss says John Stones could be available but the trio of Kyle Walker, Ederson and Nathan Ake are unlikely to feature in the game at the Etihad (KO 8.15pm.)

Asked about Stones, Walker and Ederson ahead of the game, Guardiola said: “I don’t think so. John maybe, the other two no chance. He [John] has to feel fully fit. But the injury was less than we expected. We’ll see. For today or maybe for the next games he’ll be ready.”

On Ake, he said: “Injured. Hopefully he will be back soon. I don’t know exactly the timing. For sure, the next games he won’t be ready.”

Meanwhile, Guardiola feels Jack Grealish will have a key role to play between now and the end of the season, he added: “I have the feeling that he’s back – in mood and training and desire. Now I’m pleased.

“I’ve only asked the players to be ready and be themselves, it doesn’t matter if they perform at the highest level or less. We need everyone with the title schedule.”