Manchester City pair Kevin de Bruyne and Sergio Aguero are set to return against Everton after recovering from injury.
The star duo are in contention for the Saturday lunchtime kick off at the Etihad after taking part in full training this week.
De Bruyne has been out for six weeks after suffering a second knee ligament injury this season.
Aguero hasn’t played since scoring a late equaliser against Lyon in the Champions League last month due to an adductor problem.
But Pep Guardiola confirmed both players could be back for the game against Marco Silva’s side.
“(Aguero) did the last two training sessions, he has no pain in his injury so we’ll decide,” he said.
“Kevin trained quite well with no pain - we’ll see.”
John Stones will face a fitness test after hurting his knee against Hoffenheim on Wednesday, while Fernandinho is a doubt after a thigh injury.
City can return to the top of the table for 24 hours if they record a first home win against Everton under Guardiola.
Defeat to Chelsea last week saw Liverpool overtake the Premier League champions at the summit, but they face Manchester United at Anfield on Sunday.
“It’s important to win again,” added Guardiola. “Last season when we dropped points we were able to make another big run.
“We must focus on what we have to do. Christmas is here, people on holidays, families back together, enjoying Christmas, but for us it’s the toughest time of the season and it’s time to be focussed.”
