Kevin De Bruyne is nearing a return to fitness (Picture: Getty Images)

Kevin De Bruyne might be available when Manchester City take on Newcastle on 13 January, says Pep Guardiola, after the Belgian returned to the matchday squad against Sheffield United on Saturday.

The 32-year-old was a surprise addition to the City bench against the Blades, but he didn’t feature in the match, with Guardiola admitting he is not yet ready to return from the hamstring injury that has kept him out since the first day of the season.

Asked about the prospect of De Bruyne playing before the 2-0 win, Guardiola told Sky Sports: ‘I would say not. But he’s training and we spoke yesterday about him being on the bench and in the routine and the locker room.
‘He’s one of our captains so it’s important. It’s really nice to see him back and him being there is proof that he’s getting close to coming back.’

Speaking after the game, the manager suggested it is the trip to St James’ Park that De Bruyne is targeting, rather than the FA Cup clash with Huddersfield on 7 January.

‘Really good – we’ve been waiting a long time for him,’ he said of the midfielder’s return.

‘He’s turning good the last week or so. He came for the trophies today for the picture and to be here and realise when to warm up and how the people support him and look forward to seeing him again. Maybe Newcastle he will be ready.’...