Stones, Bobb, Akanji - Man City injury latest and return dates as Pep Guardiola drops exciting hint

Manchester City injury latest as the Blues prepare for an FA Cup tie with Plymouth Argyle this weekend

Pep Guardiola watched his Manchester City side defeat Tottenham 1-0 on Wednesday night to register an important three points in the battle for Champions League football.

Erling Haaland's early goal on his return from injury was enough to secure the points and Guardiola was delighted with the result and the performances of his players - many of whom will offer the spine of the City rebuild.

“The three up front is the future. Nico when Rodri come back will be the future. Khusanov, you have seen it today and Josko is young," said Guardiola after the contest. Oscar Bobb is another name who could have a big part to play at City over the next few years and the Norway international is stepping up his return from injury. Here's the latest from the City treatment room.

John Stones

Injury: thigh

Stones was forced off after just eight minutes against Madrid and it was feared he could require surgery and be sidelined for the rest of the season. But Guardiola offered a positive update on the centre back on Tuesday that means he could return before the campaign is out.

Possible return date: April/May.

Manuel Akanji

Injury: muscle

Akanji faces an extended spell on the sidelines after tearing his adductor muscle in the 3-2 defeat to Madrid at the Etihad Stadium. He was forced off at half-time and Guardiola anticipates he may be out for more than two months.

He said earlier this month: "Surgery on Saturday (last weekend). Eight to ten weeks out. His adductor is broken. We wish the best recovery for Manu because the effort he has done this season has been unbelievable."

Possible return date: late April.

Rodri

Injury: anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)

Rodri is a long-term absentee, last appearing when City drew 2-2 with Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium on September 22. He has been working hard on his recovery in recent months and has been spotted mixing with the first-team squad on the training pitches.

The Spaniard is not expected to play again this season, but it is possible he features in City's Club World Cup campaign in the United States in the summer.

Issuing an update on his ongoing recovery recently, Rodri said: "Well, I always say, it's part of life. Injuries, athletes are used to these kind of things. But I'm a very positive guy in the sense that I take it what it is. I always thank God for everything and in these kind of moments try and be positive. And maybe do other stuff that I'm not used to doing, like coming here, spending more time with your family and why not try to improve other parts of your body, work on that and come back stronger."

Possible return date: June.

Oscar Bobb

Injury: broken leg

Bobb has not featured in any capacity for City so far this season after breaking a bone in his leg during a training session in pre-season. He has suffered a couple of minor setbacks since his initial return but is now training again. He was not involved at Tottenham on Wednesday night but his return is thought to be close.

"He feels really good, much better than when he came back [the first time]," said Guardiola on Tuesday. "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."

Possible return date: unknown.