De Bruyne faces another spell on sidelines

Kevin De Bruyne could face another six weeks out after Manchester City confirmed the midfielder has suffered knee ligament damage for a second time this season.

De Bruyne, making just his fourth appearance since his last lay-off, was hurt in the latter stages of Thursday’s Carabao Cup fourth round win over Fulham at the Etihad Stadium.

The 27-year-old was assessed yesterday and, although he does not require surgery on this occasion, will face a period of recovery.

Manager Pep Guardiola, speaking at a press conference to preview tomorrow’s league clash with Southampton, said: “For the fact he was out two and a half months and again, we’re sad for him. Nobody likes to be injured.

“When you come back you cannot expect in one day to be the player we know he is, he needs time to settle, take the rhythm, the pace.

“Yesterday he came back in many things but it is what it is. Unfortunately he’s injured but fortunately it’s not surgery. Between four and six weeks, the doctor said, he will come back.”

De Bruyne’s injury, to his left knee, is not to the same knee he was operated on after sustaining ligament damage in August.

De Bruyne will miss next week’s league derby against Manchester United and at least two Champions League games. He is also likely to be unavailable for the trip to former club Chelsea on December 8.