Former Arsenal player Liam Brady says the imminent return of Kevin De Bruyne could prove crucial for Manchester City’s chances of retaining the Premier League title.

The Gunners legend is still very much of the belief that Pep Guardiola’s team can finish the season as champions, despite their recent struggles, and one of the key reasons for that is De Bruyne’s availability:

“I still think Manchester City are the team to beat for a few reasons If they get all their players back, you would fancy them to go on a winning run and someone has to try and stick with them when they get into that patch.”

“Kevin De Bruyne is a massive player and he will be like a new signing when he comes back and winning is a habit they have mastered in the last few years.”

Will De Bruyne make his comeback against Everton?

The Belgian international was included in City’s squad for the Club World Cup but he didn’t play any part in the tournament which Guardiola’s side won after victories over Urawa Reds and Fluminense.

There is a decent chance that De Bruyne will be among the substitutes when the Cityzens travel to face Everton at Goodison Park. The midfielder needs to get some minutes off the bench to build up his fitness.

City also have other injury concerns

As Brady mentions, De Bruyne is not the only first-team player who has been on the treatment table recently. Erling Haaland has a foot injury and he remains touch and go for the trip to Everton.

Rodri was on the receiving end of a nasty tackle in the Club World Cup final against Fluminense but the Spanish international said he is confident that no lasting damage was done and he should be available for selection on Wednesday. Jeremy Doku is also struggling with a muscular problem but it is hoped that he won’t be sidelined for too long.