Gareth Southgate defends call that leaves Man City facing defensive crisis ahead of crucial Arsenal clash

Manchester City have been handed a major injury concern ahead of Sunday's home game with Arsenal.

The reigning Premier League champions are already sweating over the fitness of right-back Kyle Walker and centre-back Manuel Akanji - but there was further concern for Pep Guardiola after John Stones limped out of England's 2-2 draw with Belgium at Wembley on Tuesday night.

There were just nine minutes on the clock when Stones suffered an injury and was replaced by Liverpool’s Joe Gomez after suffering what Gareth Southgate suggested was an abductor issue. 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, 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."

Arsenal are hoping for a triple boost ahead of their trip to the Etihad Stadium as Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel and Bukayo Saka all look set to return to contention for what will surely be a pivotal game in the race for the Premier League title.

David Raya will also return after missing the 2-1 home win against Brentford due to the Premier League's regulations on loan players facing their parent clubs. City are also hoping for good news on the injury front as goalkeeper Ederson and midfielder Kevin de Bruyne approach full fitness.