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# Man City injury news with key man hoping to return vs Sunderland today

- **Source:** 
- **Published:** 20 Sept
- **Club:** Manchester City
- **Original URL:** https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/man-city-injury-news-key-34642766

Another win against Sunderland this weekend would be the perfect way to round off the first period of the season. However, the Blues will be facing a Black Cats side who are riding high after winning in the Europa League on Wednesday night.

Regis Le Bris' team have received praise from Maresca ahead of the game. "We gave rest to the ones that played back-to-back 90 minutes against Porto and [Manchester] United," the City boss said. "It was important for them to give them rest and hopefully they can be full of energy for Sunday's game that will be a strong game.

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To get it, it's a simple one-two punch.

"I have the feeling that the Sunderland game will be the toughest game since we started the season. I watched three or four games in the last few days, I know how strong they are and I feel that on Sunday we need a top performance to beat them and we need to be 100 per cent to win the game.

"I watched the game live against Arsenal and then I watched again the last few days. You can see how strong they are. I think personally they didn't deserve to lose that game.

"They are very strong, very well coached by their manager, and they already have time together so you can see what they want to do on and off the ball. My feeling after watching them is that Sunday will be the toughest game since the start of the season."

Ahead of the game, MEN Sport has taken a look at the latest injury news from the Etihad Stadium.

Doku is the only absentee for the Blues ahead of this game. City have been without the Belgium international since half-time in the Community Shield.

During that game, Doku picked up an issue with his calf and was replaced by Jack Grealish at the break. He returned to the bench in Cardiff with ice pressed to his leg.

After the win over Norwich, Maresca hinted that Doku could be back this weekend. "Probably he can be available for the Sunderland game," the Italian head coach said.

Potential return date: September 20 vs Sunderland