CITY SEE RODRI AS CLOSE TO RETURN

They travel to high-flying Palace, who fancy their top-4 chances despite ‘huge challenge’

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LONDON - Manchester City are hoping that their Ballon d’Or winner Rodri will be back in action sooner rather than later, as they prepare for their Premier League game at Crystal Palace on Dec 14 amid a potential title chase.

The Spanish midfielder continues to recover from a hamstring injury that has sidelined him since October.

City could use the influential 29-year-old in their title bid as they have narrowed the gap with Arsenal and sit two points behind the leaders in second place heading into this weekend, although the Gunners could push ahead again before City’s game.

Mikel Arteta’s men took on Wolverhampton Wanderers on Dec 13, with the match kicking off after press time.

“Rodri is training really well, and his rehab is going well,” City assistant manager Kolo Toure said on Dec 12.

“He looks sharper and sharper every day we see him, but for sure, I don't think we're going to see him for the weekend. He is going through the process.”