Jump directly to the content
Exclusive
A-OKAY

Ilkay Gundogan set to return to Manchester City first-team action this weekend after almost ten months on the sidelines

Midfielder hasn't played a first-team match since his shocking injury against Watford last December but could return to face Liverpool

ILKAY GUNDOGAN is pushing for a shock Manchester City first-team return this weekend - after nearly TEN MONTHS out.

The German midfielder has been fighting his way back to fitness after a horror knee injury suffered against Watford last December.

 Ilkay Gundogan could return this weekend after ten MONTHS out injured
4
Ilkay Gundogan could return this weekend after ten MONTHS out injuredCredit: Getty - Contributor
 The Germany international hasn't featured since his injury against Watford last December
4
The Germany international hasn't featured since his injury against Watford last DecemberCredit: PA:Press Association

He has been pushing hard in the gym and played for 60 minutes in City's Elite Development Squad match against Leicester last week.

The 26-year-old has even been given a few days off during the international break after delighting conditioning coaches with his progress.

And Pep Guardiola is considering a surprise return for Gundogan when his side take on Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool on Saturday.

An Etihad source said: "He is pushing hard for a first-team comeback. He's played a few development games and friendlies.

"His progress has been great and the coaching staff are delighted. Pep will take a closer look at him this week.

"The medical staff will have a say, but he has fully recovered from his injury and it's just down to his core fitness now.

 Medics and staff at Man City have been delighted with Ilkay Gundogan's recovery process
4
Medics and staff at Man City have been delighted with Ilkay Gundogan's recovery processCredit: Getty - Contributor
 It has been almost ten months since Ilkay Gundogan last made a first-team appearance
4
It has been almost ten months since Ilkay Gundogan last made a first-team appearanceCredit: Getty Images - Getty

"He settled quickly at the club before his injury, and it's just about getting him back on track to where he was."

Gundogan damaged knee ligaments against Watford back in December last year which ended his debut season.

He joined City the previous summer for £20m from Borussia Dortmund, and went on to make ten league appearances.

Topics