Guardiola banishes Aguero to bench in favour of Iheanacho

Sergio Aguero's long-awaited return from a four-match suspension began in a disappointing 1-0 defeat at Liverpool and now, two days later, he's been selected among the substitutes for Monday's visit from Burnley.

Kelechi Iheanacho, 20, has been preferred as the focal point up front, with Raheem Sterling, Kevin De Bruyne, and Jesus Navas busying themselves behind him. Despite being one of Manchester City's more consistent performers this term, David Silva assumes a place on the bench alongside Aguero.

Other changes include the much-maligned Aleksandar Kolarov being entrusted at centre-half ahead of John Stones, while youngster Aleix Garcia is waiting in reserve again amid calls for inclusion from an increasingly large chunk of the City support.

With 10 points distancing Pep Guardiola's lot from Antonio Conte's irrepressible table-topping Chelsea, the Spanish tactician begins 2017 with a must-win match against Burnley.

Sean Dyche's visitor lines up in surprisingly attacking fashion. Dean Marney misses the contest through suspension, allowing Jeff Hendrick to return after his ban was lifted. Hendrick is partnered by natural winger Scott Arfield in central midfield, with Johann Berg Gudmundsson and George Boyd manning the flanks. Andre Gray and Ashley Barnes make up the strikeforce, and Sam Vokes is on the bench.