Man City get John Stones injury boost amid shock Ruben Dias revelation and Oscar Bobb update

Pep Guardiola offered Manchester City injury updates on Ruben Dias, John Stones and Oscar Bobb ahead of their Premier League trip to Tottenham.

John Stones could return for Manchester City before the end of the season after his thigh injury was not severe enough to require surgery.

Stones went off at Real Madrid in his latest injury setback of the campaign, with Pep Guardiola confirming that he would be out for 'two to three months' in a similar time-frame to Manuel Akanji's lay-off. Akanji underwent surgery last weekend and Stones was initially paired with him in terms of the seriousness of his injury.

But Guardiola confirmed that Stones does not need surgery and he is expected to return in eight to ten weeks, which could put him set for a return at the start of May. City will hope to be in contention for an FA Cup final as well as a top four finish in the Premier League ahead of their Club World Cup campaign in June and July.

Guardiola also eased concerns over Ruben Dias' fitness after he was dropped to the bench against Liverpool in favour of new boy Abdukodir Khusanov.

Confirming that Dias' omission was nothing to do with any injury or fitness concerns, Guardiola said: "It was tactical. He came from injury and we wanted a bit more pace from Khusanov and a left-footer on the left side. Ruben is massively important for us as a player and a character, many many things. He has been a key player for this period but sometimes I decide for our players."

And Guardiola also offered an update on Oscar Bobb's condition, with the youngster expected back from his broken leg by the start of 2025. However he has suffered a couple of minor setbacks and doctors have told Bobb to take a step back from training until he is fully recovered.

"He feels really good, much better than when he came back [the first time]," said Guardiola. "He had a problem in the [ankle] disturbing him, he could not run properly. Come back, stop, come back, stop. The doctors decide wisely to stop until you feel little discomfort in the ankle. Then you can train.

"I think he will be back soon for the last part (of the season). But I said that a month ago and still is not here. Hopefully this time can happen."

Bobb trained on Tuesday, supporting Guardiola's comments suggesting he could be over his most recent setback and close to a return.