Blues line up to step into Aguero’s boots

SERGIO Aguero’s injury is obviously disappointing for City.

The striker has the club’s all-time scoring record within his sights after a terrific start to the season and has also been laying on chances for his team-mates.

He faced six to eight weeks out with a broken rib, but has just made a return to the training ground to boost Pep Guardiola’s plans.

However, City are not close to being short of attacking talent and a number of players should be capable of stepping up in the Argentine’s absence for the coming matches.

Here are four that look to be most directly affected by the accident in Amsterdam ahead of City’s clash with Stoke on Saturday. GABRIEL JESUS Having had a terrific start to his City career, the Brazilian was especially candid after being substituted against Shakhtar last month.

He acknowledged that he wasn’t on top of his game, saying: “I accept it. If I’m not playing well and deserve to be on the bench, then that’s it.”

He failed to get on the score sheet against Chelsea – but he will be vital while his strike partner is out. RAHEEM STERLING Guardiola decided last season that he wanted his wingers to attack the byline, stretching the team as wide as possible on both flanks.

What Leroy Sane did on the left, it was Sterling’s job to do on the right.

One change of heart later, the coach believes the England man is best through the middle – and he has certainly looked more potent in that role. If the intention is still to play two up front, Sterling could be the main beneficiary from Aguero’s injury. BERNARDO SILVA Like Sane last autumn, Bernardo has been eased in since making his £43m move from Monaco.

The Portuguese star is highly rated at the Etihad but his late arrival in Manchester following the Confederations Cup, and getting adjusted to a new and very different league, has seen his game-time limited. The form of his team-mates has also allowed it. With Aguero out, he could get his chance – but would his game be suited to the physical approach of Stoke? BRAHIM DIAZ The youngster impressed on the summer tour and has continued that form. Has not had any minutes with the first team this season but can expect to step up into matchday squads as the forward next in line – especially because of his use playing centrally. If he still doesn’t get a look-in, the decision not to send him on loan for competitive football this season will begin to look questionable.