GUARDIOLA WARY OF NEWCASTLE DESPITE TWO-GOAL LEAD

MANCHESTER City welcome Newcastle United to the Etihad Stadium at 10pm on Wednesday for the second leg of their League Cup semi-final, holding a 2-0 advantage from the first meeting.

Goals from Antoine Semenyo and Rayan Cherki put Pep Guardiola’s side in a strong position, but Newcastle have shown they remain dangerous opponents.

The City baas confirmed that Rayan Cherki will be assessed after picking up a knock, while Ruben Dias has returned to training.

However, Josko Gvardiol, John Stones, Savinho and Mateo Kovacic all remain sidelined, with Marc Guehi ineligible.

Guardiola wysed: “I know perfectly Eddie Howe and the times we played against Newcastle and the pride they have. A Champions League team and we have to be prepared.”

Meanwhile, Newcastle manager Howe dismissed speculation linking Sandro Tonali with a move away from St James’ Park, insisting the midfielder is happy and committed.

Rumours of a shock deadline-day move to Arsenal on Monday were quickly quashed after reports in Italy claimed a representative of Tonali had contacted the Gunners.

Howe was asked whether he feared a similar situation could happen with Tonali during the close-season window, but he backed the 25-year-old to stay committed.

Howe said: “I don’t think so, but lots of things happen without my knowledge. He’s very happy here, he’s got a great relationship with me and his teammates.”