Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

Erling Haaland misses out for Manchester City as the defending Premier League champion prepares to host Liverpool.

Arne Slot takes his side to the Etihad today, where the Reds will be looking to make a huge stride toward the title after Arsenal’s surprise defeat to West Ham on Saturday.

Liverpool can go 11 points clear if it claims a first win away at City since 2015.

Ahead of today's game, there have been questions marks over the fitness of Haaland, with the striker's involvement under serious doubt after he was left on the bench for City's defeat to Real Madrid during the week.

Pep Guardiola gave very little away when asked about the possibility of the Norwegian returning against Liverpool on Friday, insisting a late decision would have to be made.

Read More.

The City boss has now made that call, with Haaland missing out completely, having been left out of the matchday squad.

With Manuel Akanji also out injured, options are running out for City in defense.

It's January signing Abdukodir Khusanov that keeps his spot in the starting XI, moving to center-back alongside Nathan Ake as Ruben Dias drops to the bench

The Egyptian scored his first hat-trick for his new club last weekend, and will find himself coming up against his international teammate Mohamed Salah today.

Confirmed Man City team vs Liverpool: Ederson, Lewis, Khusanov, Ake, Gvardiol, Gonzalez, De Bruyne, Savinho, Foden, Doku, Marmoush.

Substitutes: Ortega, Dias, Kovacic, Grealish, Gundogan, Bernardo, Reis, Nunes, McAtee.


For more news relating to Manchester City, visit our sister site City Latest Live.