Kevin De Bruyne doubts Man City clash against Liverpool

Manchester City talisman Kevin De Bruyne suffered a hamstring injury in Wednesday’s win over Aston Villa, casting doubt on his inclusion for next month’s clash with Liverpool.

De Bruyne was forced to leave just before the time after stopping during a sprint. The 29-year-old, a driving force behind City’s recent resurgence, has already experienced hamstring issues and is expected to miss the next few weeks.

Pep Guardiola’s side will face West Bromwich Albion, Sheffield United and Burnley in the Premier League before a potentially crucial trip to Anfield against defending champions Jurgen Klopp on February 7.

News of De Bruyne’s injury came the same day Sergio Aguero confirmed he had contracted coronavirus.

The Argentine had previously self-isolated after coming into contact with a friend who had the virus. He came back positive earlier this week and is likely to return to training towards the end of next week. The forward has not started a game since October 24 after being injured.

Thursday has been a year to the day since the 32-year-old’s last Premier League goal, with talks about a new contract yet to begin despite his deal expiring at the end of the season.

De Bruyne’s absence is seen as City’s biggest blow. The Belgian now has 100 assists for the club and has created more chances than any other Premier League player this season. Ilkay Gundogan, Bernardo Silva or Phil Foden will be called upon to take on more creative responsibility as the club’s vice-captain recovers.

Meanwhile, Villa manager Dean Smith has been accused by the Football Association of using foul and insulting language towards an official in City’s 2-0 win.

Smith was infuriated by the circumstances surrounding Silva’s opening, when Rodri returned from an offside position to dispossess Tyrone Mings, and was sent to the stands by Jon Moss for his protests.

“They weren’t swear words,” Smith said. “ He (Moss) came over and said he was interpreting the laws of the game. I said, ‘Well, you should have done that earlier in the game. I think I was treated unfairly. I’ve heard a lot of things said to Jonathan Moss before and he wasn’t treated like that.

Smith has until Tuesday to respond to the charge.