Manchester City defender John Stones has been ruled out of this afternoon’s clash against Manchester United due to injury.

The Lowdown: United team news

Erik ten Hag takes his side to the Etihad Stadium off the back of four straight Premier League wins, knowing that a fifth successive victory will take the Red Devils into the top four.

However, the United boss will be without Harry Maguire and appears to be sweating over the fitness of both Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford.

Pep Guardiola also has a fresh injury concern following a hamstring injury to Stones during the international break.

The Latest: Stones ruled out

Guardiola confirmed in his pre-match press conference on Friday that the England defender will be unavailable for up to two weeks, ruling him out of this afternoon’s clash against United.

City are already without fellow England international Kalvin Phillips, while Aymeric Laporte could possibly return for his first appearance of the season.

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The Verdict: Boost for Ten Hag

Stones, who has been hailed as 'exceptional' by Guardiola, was establishing himself as a regular prior to this injury, starting the last five Premier League games for City.

He showed his versatility by playing at right-back against Wolves and Borussia Dortmund before the international break, so his absence today should come as a boost to Ten Hag.

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However, City now have strength in depth at centre-back after signing Manuel Akanji from Dortmund, so the Swiss defender may be the man to come in, with Nathan Ake or Laporte also options to partner Ruben Dias.