Manchester City duo John Stones and David Silva have returned to training ahead of Saturday's meeting with Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium.
Centre-back Stones has been sidelined since injuring his hamstring against Leicester City in November, while Spanish midfielder Silva missed last weekend's win over Tottenham Hotspur.
The recovery of both players comes at an important time, as Pep Guardiola's side look to maintain the defence of their 11-point Premier League lead throughout the Christmas period.
Kevin De Bruyne and Raheem Sterling, who were the subjects of strong challenges in last weekend's defeat of Spurs, are not injured and Guardiola has said that is important that referees protect players.
"I don't believe the players go to injure another one - it is impossible to think that - but the football is quick, fast and aggressive and the refs have to follow the rules," the Spaniard told the Daily Mail.
"Everybody is squealing about diving here. If they want to punish those who are diving, it's OK but the main thing the ref has to do is protect the players.
"Always we are aggressive and sometimes we get injured. All the teams want to win and want to fight in the best way. I have no doubts that Dele Alli and Harry Kane are top-team players. I am not suspicious or thinking they are dangerous players."
City go into their game against the Cherries looking for a 17th consecutive league win.
Jonny Whitfield
