Pep Guardiola press conference: Rodri and Abdukodir Khusanov fitness updates for Crystal Palace clash

Why Abdukodir Khusanov is absent from Manchester City matchday squad against Brentford

Abdukodir Khusanov was a shock absentee from the Manchester City squad against the Bees and it was further revealed that the Uzbekistan international suffered an injury against Everton that ruled out of for the visit from the Bees.

Man City fitness concerns ahead of Crystal Palace

Khusanov’s injury is not thought to be serious, though Guardiola could decide to reward Nathan Ake for his reliable display against Brentford and retain faith in the Dutchman against Oliver Glasner and co on Wednesday night.

Ruben Dias was back in the matchday squad against Brentford after recovering from a hamstring injury sustained in the week leading to the Carabao Cup final in March, though the Portugal international was an unused substitute.

Josko Gvardiol has also returned to full first-team training after recovering from a tibial fracture he suffered in January, though he was not in the squad against Brentford.

Rodri remained absent for Manchester City against Brentford as it remains to be seen whether the Spain international will recover from his calf injury – sustained in the closing minutes of a 2-1 win over Arsenal in April – in time for Wednesday’s must-win fixture against the Eagles.

Pep discusses Man City fitness for Crystal Palace clash

In a press conference on Tuesday afternoon, Guardiola provided an update on his side’s fitness as they embark on the final fortnight of their campaign amid hopes of a domestic treble.

Pep Guardiola: We have done it before, we can win the domestic treble again

On Rodri, Guardiola said: “Better, we’ll see (after) training this afternoon,” with no indication as such of whether the Ballon d’Or winner is in line to make a return against Crystal Palace.

On Khusanov, Guardiola added: “Better as well, (he) had a tough knock against Beto versus Everton and yeah, he’s better.”

The Manchester City manager refused to comment on whether any of Rodri or Khusanov will be available against Chelsea in the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday.

City must win against Crystal Palace on Wednesday – their game in hand over Arsenal – to cut the Gunners’ lead at the top of the table back to two points ahead of a monumental few weeks in the title run-in.