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De Bruyne and Milner back in training ahead of huge Man City vs Liverpool

Both midfielders trained ahead of the mammoth meeting on Thursday night - but will face late fitness tests

MANCHESTER CITY and Liverpool could welcome back two of their biggest performances for the massive top-of-the-table clash on Thursday.

Both Kevin De Bruyne and James Milner trained on Wednesday - although the two midfielders will face late fitness tests ahead of the mammoth meeting at the Etihad.

 James Milner (left) and Kevin De Bruyne (centre) could return for Man City vs Liverpool on Thursday
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James Milner (left) and Kevin De Bruyne (centre) could return for Man City vs Liverpool on ThursdayCredit: Action Images via Reuters

Belgian De Bruyne has missed large chunks of the season with two separate knee injuries - and also sat out Sunday's win at Southampton.

However, he trained with his team-mates at CFA on Wednesday and will be checked prior to kick off at the Etihad.

But Pep Guardiola is optimistic he will be able to field his midfield 'holy trinity' of De Bruyne, David Silva and Fernandinho for the first time this season.

The Man City boss said: "He trained on Wednesday but on Thursday we need another check in the morning but he is much better."

 Belgian maestro De Bruyne has missed 22 matches this season because of knee injuries
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Belgian maestro De Bruyne has missed 22 matches this season because of knee injuriesCredit: Getty Images - Getty
 James Milner has missed Liverpool's last two matches because of a hamstring problem
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James Milner has missed Liverpool's last two matches because of a hamstring problemCredit: Alamy Live News

Guardiola must decide who will play at left-back with Benjamin Mendy still injured and Fabian Delph suspended.

He is likely to choose between Alex Zinchenko or Danilo - although Aymeric Laporte played there in the Champions League clash with Liverpool last year.

But once again he insisted he will not be dipping into the transfer market to try to plug any gaps in his squad.

He said: "The third time I answered. No news is good news so no.

 Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola face off in a massive clash on Thursday night
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Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola face off in a massive clash on Thursday nightCredit: PA:Press Association

"Maybe tomorrow I change my opinion but today no. I am glad with the players we have, they can play in different positions."

Liverpool star Milner has missed the last two Liverpool wins against Newcastle United and Arsenal because of a hamstring problem, but had full training on Wednesday.

Reds boss Jurgen Klopp said: "He was back in training with us yesterday for the first time, so we will see."

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