Pep Guardiola says a fit-again Kevin De Bruyne will be a huge boost to the second half of City’s campaign.

Pep Guardiola is hoping Kevin De Bruyne‘s return is imminent...

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The Blues have coped fantastically well without the Belgian playmaker this season, but the City boss feels his return – which could come as soon as the Everton clash – will be perfectly timed.

“How much will it help us?” the Catalan said: “A lot.

“I said at the beginning when he was injured that we will miss him.

“All the players would miss him. It’s important because he has to compete with players who have done incredible so far.

“We have more players and can rotate, but of course, good news for him to come back.

“Kevin was exhausted last season, and he was incredible.

“After that he went to World Cup, then I felt he was tired. That’s why maybe.

“We don’t want him to be injured, but maybe it helps because now he will be fresh and play regularly.”

Pep also responded to the question of a hectic schedule being the reason so many of his squad have picked up injuries lately.

“Always when this happens it’s because the muscles are tired,” he said.

“Normally when you are strong you have full recovery and less time to be injured. The way we train is quite similar to last season, but last season we were best in league for hardly any injuries.

“So, watch out, be careful…”

Pep also added he is more than happy with Gabriel Jesus’ contribution to the team.

“I said many times, I know strikers live for scoring goals, but he makes a lot of passes and creates moments.

“I’m pretty sure he will have a lot more, we will give him time.

“Last game he was so demanding, he gives us extra for his pressing.”