Why Jack Grealish and Kyle Walker aren't playing for Man City against Everton

But while manager Pep Guardiola will be doing his all to try and get a win for his beleaguered Citizens, he's not been dealt a kind hand.

There had already been doubts on the fitness of John Stones, Matheus Nunes, and Ederson.

And all three are absent for the Boxing Day clash with Everton.

But two more key stars are also absent for Guardiola as he looks to grab a vital win at the Etihad Stadium.

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England stars Kyle Walker and Jack Grealish are both out of the matchday squad.

Grealish started the 2-1 loss to his former club Aston Villa last time out, while Walker, who also spent time at Villa Park, came on to replace the injured Stones.

Now though both are unable to take part against the Toffees, led by Sean Dyche.

Grealish is 'not fully fit', while Walker is unwell and unable to take to the field.

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Speaking ahead of the game, Guardiola was coy on Stones' fitness: "I didn't talk with the doctors but if he could not play the second half at Villa Park it is because he wasn't ready. We'll see

On Ederson and Nunes, he added: "We train this afternoon and will see how many players we have available.

"At the moment, I don't know.

"We train today and we train tomorrow night, and then we stay here and then play on Boxing Day.

"Tonight and tomorrow, they will be with their families. Tomorrow night they will be here. Hopefully they want to be here - it is our job."

However all three are out - and have been joined by two more as Man City try to avert a bigger crisis.

Their current run of form has seen them win just once in 12 matches - a victory over high-flyers Nottingham Forest.

And as they aimed for perfect preparation for the clash with Everton, players even slept at the Man City training ground.

Man City team to face Everton:

Ortega; Lewis, Akanji, Ake, Gvardiol; Kovacic, Bernardo; Savinho, Foden, Doku; Haaland.

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