Fernandinho return gives City title boost

Cape Town - Fernandinho is set to hand defending Premier League champions Manchester City a huge boost by returning to action after the international break.

The Brazilian midfielder, a vital component for the way in which boss Pep Guardiola asks his team to play, has been side-lined with a groin injury since last month's Carabao Cup final victory over Chelsea at Wembley.

The Citizens remain in the hunt for a quadruple of trophies this season and the availability again of the 33-year-old could prove crucial in whether they are successful in their quest.

While most of his colleagues are away, it is understood Fernandinho has remained behind in Manchester this week and will step up his rehab programme during the next 72 hours.

The veteran is eyeing City's trip to face relegation-threatened Fulham at Craven Cottage on March 30, with skipper Vincent Kompany and Benjamin Mendy also ready to re-enter the fray.

There are further encouraging signs injured Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne will not be too far behind them, with the Manchester giants increasingly confident the playmaker will be available for next month's Champions League quarter-final showdown with Tottenham Hotspur.