City's Sane, Kompany out for Liverpool contest; Stones available

Leroy Sane and Vincent Kompany won't feature in Manchester City's final match of the year after manager Pep Guardiola ruled the pair out of Saturday's tie against Liverpool.

Sane has failed to overcome the "minor knock" that forced him to miss City's win over Hull City, while Kompany continues his attempt to recover from a serious knee injury.

Guardiola, however, delivered some positive news on the injury front when he revealed that John Stones is fit enough to feature in Saturday's contest.

"John is much, much better," Guardiola told reporters. “Vincent and Leroy I think will not be available to play.

City has been without its captain since late November when Kompany suffered ligament damage in his knee during a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace. The team's medical staff projected he would return in six weeks, meaning Kompany may be available in the opening weeks of the new year.

Sane is believed to be fit, but will be rested at least one more match.

Meanwhile, City supporters will be relieved to learn that Stones has overcome a knee problem in time for the crucial Premier League encounter.

It was initially feared that City would be without the English defender for a considerable amount of time when he went down with the injury just 17 minutes into his side's Boxing Day win over Hull City. But, after the match, Guardiola was quick to insist the 22-year-old avoided ligament damage after only suffering a "kick" to the knee

City is set to receive another boost as Sergio Aguero figures to play a role in the match after completing his four-match ban.

"Aguero is ready - he came back good from Argentina," Guardiola added. "Finally, he came back after four games ban and we are happy he is back."

Liverpool enjoys a one-point advantage over fourth-place City heading into the fixture at Anfield.