Gabriel Jesus, Vincent Kompany, Fernandinho Return to Training After Injury

Manchester City have received an injury boost ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash at Southampton, as Gabriel Jesus, Vincent Kompany and Fernandinho have all returned to training after injury:

The Premier League champions will be aiming to end a poor run of form at St Mary's Stadium. Pep Guardiola's side have lost three of their last four league outings and have slipped seven points behind leaders Liverpool.

The absence of Fernandinho in midfield has been particularly keenly felt. The Brazilian has not featured since the 3-1 win over Everton and missed the defeats against Crystal Palace and Leicester City:

Football analyst Nouman explained why the midfielder is so crucial:

It remains to be seen if Fernandinho will be fit enough to start against Southampton, and Guardiola may also have one eye on Thursday's clash against Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium. If the Brazilian does miss out then Ilkay Gundogan is likely to take his place in midfield.

The return of Kompany will also be welcomed by City, who have looked uncharacteristically vulnerable in defence in recent weeks. The Belgian's experience and leadership may help improve a backline that has conceded five goals in its last two games.

Guardiola has said his team conceding goals is one of their "big issues," according to Simon Bajkowski at the Manchester Evening News.

Aymeric Laporte and John Stones are likely to continue as centre-backs for the trip to Southampton, but Kompany is a useful option for Guardiola if he wants to change his defence around.

Jesus will also provide another option in attack for City. The Brazilian has not been at his best this season, but his two goals in the win over Everton will have helped his confidence.

Sergio Aguero remains City's main man in attack, but the Argentinian has gone three games without a goal and Jesus may be a useful option off the bench if Aguero continues to misfire.

After defeats in their last two games Manchester City can ill-afford to drop more points if they are to successfully retain their title. They will also want to return to winning ways and build confidence before the visit of Liverpool.