Man City sweating over fitness of two key players ahead of Arsenal clash in Premier League title race

Arsenal have received a boost ahead of their Premier League title race clash with Manchester City at the weekend. The Citizens could be without two of their key defenders - Kyle Walker and John Stones.

They both suffered knocks while on international duty with England. As things stand, it is unclear if either of the two will be fit to play on Sunday afternoon - however, it currently looks unlikely.

They are not the only City players who might miss out - Kevin De Bruyne, Matheus Nunes and Ederson are also doubts. Meanwhile, Arsenal could miss out on the services of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel and Gabriel Martinelli. Jurrien Timber is also still confirmed to be absent as he continues to recover from his long-term knee injury.

How would the loss of Kyle Walker and John Stones affect Manchester City against Arsenal?

While City have a massive amount of squad depth and can theoretically replace Walker and Stones in their starting XI on Sunday, they cannot replace everything that the two players bring to the team. City do not have another centre-back who is as composed on the ball as Stones is - additionally, they also don't have any defenders who are as quick as Walker.

Walker's pace often gets City out of jail when they are caught on the break - his explosiveness and clever positioning allows him to push on-running wingers out wide, rather than letting them come inside and fire off an effort on goal.

Stones will likely be replaced in the squad by Nathan Ake or Ruben Dias - Manuel Akanji is also a contender to take his place, but he is also an injury doubt after picking up a knock with Switzerland. Walker, meanwhile, could have his position filled by Rico Lewis if he is not available.