Jesus in line for surprise City return
GABRIEL JESUS could make a shock comeback for Manchester City’s FA Cup semi-final against Arsenal tomorrow, 10 weeks after breaking a metatarsal in his right foot. The Brazil star was expected to miss the rest of the season after having surgery for the injury he suffered at Bournemouth on February 13 in his fifth City game. But the 20-year-old forward, who was an instant hit following his £27million move from Palmeiras in January, trained yesterday and will travel to Wembley with the City squad. Manager Pep Guardiola said: ‘He’s really much, much better. We are so happy he’s back again. I am happy for all the injured players when they come back, but especially him. He had all of Europe in his hands and he came to join us. We cannot forget that. ‘That’s why we’re so happy he can help us to score goals at the end of the season. We are going to travel with all the squad to Wembley and he will be part of that. We will watch the match between Tottenham and Chelsea. After dinner I will decide the team.’ However, City will be without John Stones due to a muscle injury. ‘Maybe he can come back to face United on Thursday, but I don’t know,’ Guardiola said. He also urged his players to take the chance to add silverware to an unexceptional season. ‘We want the FA Cup to put in my players’ heads how good they are,’ he said. ‘Winning titles helps you a lot. It helps you win more. You win a title or a final, it’s a lot of stress, a lot of pressure. If you handle that and you win, the next time is easier.’ However, he would understand if the club’s owners are unhappy with his first season in charge. ‘I don’t think they will be happy,’ said Guardiola. ‘Expectations are the highest they can be, the club want to win titles. ‘Despite the fact that I am happy with what we’ve done, it is still not enough. But the chairman and the owner have to decide whatever they want.’