Bad news for Liverpool! Erling Haaland pictured looking menacing in Man City training ahead of crunch Premier League encounter with Ederson and Nathan Ake also back on grass

The prolific Norwegian frontman picked up another “painful” ankle injury while turning out for his country in Euro 2024 qualification action during the international break. He sat out a meeting with Scotland as a result, with fears raised regarding his involvement at club level when returning to the Etihad Stadium.

Haaland has, however, been put through his paces alongside the rest of Pep Guardiola’s squad as they ready themselves for a crunch Premier League clash with Liverpool. The 23-year-old striker, who hit 52 goals in City’s Treble triumph last season, appears to be in full working order.

City had to deal with some inclement weather conditions during their training session on Thursday, with the Manchester rain pouring down, but Guardiola was also able to cast an eye over Rodri, Ederson and Nathan Ake – who have all been nursing knocks of late.

Reigning champions City head into their meeting with Liverpool perched back at the top of the Premier League table. They are only one point clear of the Reds, though, and will need the likes of Haaland to be firing on all cylinders if they are to avoid slipping from the summit.