Football
Jonathan Smith, Manchester City correspondent 6y

Fabian Delph hopes not to miss any time for Man City - sources

Fabian Delph hopes to be fit for Manchester City's Premier League clash with Stoke City after being forced to miss England's World Cup qualifiers, sources have told ESPN FC.

The midfielder joined up with the national squad for the first time in more than a year but was forced to withdraw with a hamstring injury.

However, sources said City believe the injury is not serious and he could be in contention to start against Stoke -- a club that tried to sign him in the summer.

Delph opted to stay and has started three of City's last four games, including the 1-0 win over champions Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

The 27-year-old has been used as an emergency left back following the cruciate knee ligament injury to French defender Benjamin Mendy that is likely to rule him out until April.

Delph's return will be a boost to Pep Guardiola, who has been impressed at the way the former Aston Villa player has taken his opportunity after making just 13 appearances last season.

"He has shown me and his teammates a lot," the City boss said. "It is not easy when you don't play for a long period and then when the manager gives you an opportunity it is to play a position you have never played before. It means a lot. Normally that happens when you are a good guy.

"There are some guys who just want to play their position but he is a guy who always wants to help. Last season he didn't play but he still had a voice in the locker room. I'm so satisfied, so happy for him."

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