Manchester City sweat on fitness of star defender ahead of Manchester United showdown

Manchester City are currently sweating on the fitness and availability of central defender John Stones ahead of the weekend's Manchester derby.

Despite a start to the season in red-hot form, Pep Guardiola's side have certainly had their fair share of injury problems.

Aymeric Laporte has been ruled out for all of the season so far following knee surgery undertaken in the summer.

However, the Spain international is well on his way to making a return to the Manchester City side in October.

The latest of such injury concerns regards John Stones - who has played an integral part in the City team so far this season.

Operating at right-back, as well as his natural role in central defence, the former Everton defender offers versatility to Pep Guardiola's thinking.

Unfortunately for the Catalan boss and his plans ahead of the return of club football, John Stones was forced off in the first-half of England's dramatic 3-3 UEFA Nations League draw against Germany on Monday night.

The Manchester City defender appeared to sustain a problem with his hamstring, clutching the rear of his leg with some discomfort before being replaced by fellow club teammate, Kyle Walker.

According to ESPN, John Stones is expected back at Manchester City's City Football Academy training centre on Wednesday.

Stones is set to be assessed by the club's medical staff, and is likely to undergo a scan.

That will precede any decision made on whether he can be declared available for the weekend's Etihad Stadium showdown against city rivals, Manchester United.

Manchester City return to Premier League action against their bitter neighbours on Sunday afternoon.

Pep Guardiola's squad have come out of the international break with just the one injury, concerning the aforementioned Stones.

However, there is also an extended lay-off to be contended with regards to Kalvin Phillips.

The summer signing from Leeds United had undergone surgery on a shoulder problem last week, and while there is no timeframe on an expected return to action, the England international will be hoping to make it back in time to be in with a shout of making Gareth Southgate's squad for the World Cup in Qatar.