Kevin De Bruyne sparked fresh injury concerns after hurting his knee during Manchester City’s EFL Cup win against Fulham.
The Belgian international – who has only just returned from knee ligament damage – was forced off after 86 minutes following a collision with Timothy Fosu-Mensah.
He immediately underwent tests at the Etihad, leaving Pep Guardiola sweating on the fitness of one of his most important players.
“He’s being checked,” said the City manager after the 2-0 win. “I don’t know right now.”
It was only De Bruyne’s second start after two months out with ligament damage to his right knee.
City were at least encouraged that the latest injury relates to his left knee – but there were worrying scenes as he stayed down following the incident, with his face contorted in pain.
De Bruyne managed to limp off the pitch, but was clearly in discomfort as he appearing indicate his leg had been jarred under the weight of Fosu-Mensah.
Should he face another prolonged period out of action it will be a major blow to Guardiola, who hoped to start the playmaker against Manchester United in next week’s derby.
“I think today Kevin is back,” said the Catalan. “It’s the Kevin we know. He made a huge effort in Dontesk. He played a few minutes in a difficult situation against Spurs.
“He was involved in the offensive and defensive side tonight. Hopefully it’s not serious.”
