Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has hinted that Kevin De Bruyne could be in line for a shock return to action in this weekend's top-of-the-table showdown with Liverpool.

The Belgian playmaker has been out of action since the opening week of the season after suffering knee ligament damage in a training session.

De Bruyne was back in training well ahead of schedule earlier this week, however, and eight weeks on from sustaining the injury he may now be considered for selection at Anfield.

Asked about the 27-year-old's chances of returning against Liverpool, Guardiola told reporters at Friday's pre-match presser: "He made a part of the training session today, he is training with us. We will see tomorrow."

De Bruyne played a direct part in 24 top-flight goals last season to be crowned City's Player of the Year.