Mauricio Pochettino confirms Thiago Silva & Carney Chukwuemeka setbacks in double Chelsea injury blow - but reveals Robert Sanchez is ready to return after two months out

Blues manager Pochettino revealed a mixed bag when it came to his players' fitness, with the Argentine ruling out Silva and Carney Chukwuemeka for the clash against Pep Guardiola's men. However, goalkeeper Sanchez is available after a lengthy knee injury, and Levi Colwill and Malo Gusto are in contention as well, ahead of Saturday's trip to the Etihad.

The former Tottenham manager told reporters on Friday: "[Thiago Silva has a] Minor injury, but he is not available. We need to assess day by day.

"[Gusto and Colwill] are OK. They recovered well. Both available. Robert Sanchez is available. Carney Chukwuemeka twisted his ankle two days ago. He is out.

"[Sanchez's return] is a good thing for the team. You will see [the selection between him and Petrovic]. It's very good to be back. It's better to have all the players available."

While Chelsea are still without key personnel in Reece James and Wesley Fofana, their injury list has began to shrink during a season where they have had a hefty absentee list. However, Silva's injury gives Pochettino a selection conundrum in defence, but Sanchez's return in goal is a more positive dilemma - even if Djordje Petrovic has largely been reliable between the sticks in the Spaniard's absence.

This huge test at second-placed City is Chelsea's last game before they take on Liverpool in the Carabao Cup on Sunday, February 25. After that, the Blues take on Championship side Leeds United in the fifth round of the FA Cup three days later.