De Bruyne could be involved at some stage in the Liverpool game even if he does not start

Kevin De Bruyne is winning his race to be fit for Manchester City’s title showdown against Liverpool tomorrow.

De Bruyne sat out the 3-1 win over Southampton on Sunday because of a muscle injury. The Belgian playmaker, so crucial to City’s success last season, did not train with his team-mates on Monday, but he is now nearing a return to fitness.

“He trained today but tomorrow we need another check in the morning, but he is much better,” said Guardiola, the City manager.

It remains to be seen whether De Bruyne starts the game or is on the substitutes’ bench.

It is not Guardiola’s style to throw players straight back into the team following an injury, but given that the match is likely to be