Fernandinho could return for Man City in FA Cup Final with Watford

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Fernandinho is pushing hard to ready for Saturday’s FA Cup Final after missing the final weeks of the season with a knee injury.

The Manchester City midfielder wore strapping on his knee during training this week and his involvement in preparations has raised hope he will at least be able to make the bench.

Pep Guardiola is desperate for the Brazilian to play a part in the Final and he will be assessed before the manager makes a decision.

The Premier League champions stand on the brink of history, knowing victory will secure an unprecedented domestic treble.

Guardiola is wary of Watford’s aerial threat and considers Fernandinho one of his most effective players when defending set pieces. Ilkay Gundogan has been deputising for the 34-year-old, but does not provide the physical presence of Fernandinho, which could be vital against Javi Gracia’s Watford.

Guardiola spoke of his concerns about his side’s strength in the air after Glenn Murray’s headed goal in last week’s 4-1 win against Brighton.

“I am the tallest guy,” said the Catalan. “In the set pieces it is go to the church to pray. It is a drama.”

Kevin de Bruyne is also pushing to start at Wembley after recovering from a hamstring injury, while Vincent Kompany is desperate to play what could be his final game for the club.

In Pictures | Brighton vs Man City | 12/05/2019

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The City captain is a free agent this summer, but insists his focus is on more glory after already lifting the title and the League Cup this season.

“I’m so eager to play the FA Cup Final, I’m so motivated,” said the 33-year-old Belgium centre-half.

“It’s not about adding that achievement (the treble) to my CV. I don’t care about my CV.

“I know this team and they are like a pack of lions. When this team is hungry, they are such a special team.

“I’m going to do everything I can to put a bit of blood in that water, so this team gets even hungrier!”

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