Gareth Taylor provides fitness update ahead of Spurs Etihad clash

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The duo missed the trip to Selhurst Park last time out where we recorded a 3-0 win over Crystal Palace.

But Taylor says the pair returned to training this week and are in contention to lock horns with the Londoners on Friday at 19:30 (UK).

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However, the boss also revealed Laia Aleixandri will continue to be assessed to determine if she’s available for selection for City’s meeting with Robert Vilahamn’s side.

The versatile defender was also absent for the Blues during our triumph over the Eagles last time out after sustaining an injury during international duty with Spain.

Before the pause in domestic action, she made nine appearances in all competitions, registering one assist and playing a crucial role in keeping us unbeaten so far.

“Yama and Mary are back,” Taylor declared.

“Laia we just need a bit longer to assess, but those guys are fine.”

Taylor also offered an update on Naomi Layzell and Vivianne Miedema who have both been absent since our 2-0 victory over Barcelona on Wednesday 9 October.

The defender suffered an ankle injury in the success over the reigning European champions and the Netherlands international received successful treatment on her knee last month.

And the boss explained Layzell is nearing a comeback, while Miedema is in fine spirits although there hasn’t been a definitive timeframe for her return.

He added: “One bit of positive news is Layzell is getting closer, we had a positive meeting on her ankle situation, that’s a real positive because she’s a good player for us and her ability to play in a number of positions is really important.

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“We were probably all a bit surprised that the first scan didn’t show what was really going on, particularly with the nature of the movement she made.

“I just spoke to Naomi earlier and she had a really positive conversation with the specialist yesterday. We’re in a position to start loading her up again. Her return will be fairly imminent, which is really positive for us.

“I have spoken to Viv. She was due down in London today to see a specialist to check everything’s coming on fine and that we’re still on target trying to get her back as soon as possible.

“She’s happy, feels good and actually feels she could do more than where she’s at which is a positive sign. We’ll know a little bit more after today but she was in good spirits.

“For us it’s about managing it from day to day, hopefully we get decent feedback today from the specialist dealing with her and we can move to the next target.

“The medical staff are waiting for the green light to be able to push on.”

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Tickets for City’s WSL showdown with Tottenham Hotspur are available from just £15 for adults and £5 for Under-16s. Visit mancity.com and the Official Man City App for more information.

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Additionally, supporters can also secure their seat for further WSL Etihad clashes against Manchester United (17/18/19 January) and Chelsea (21/22/23 March) through the Hat-Trick Pack at a price of £40 for adults and £12 for U16s.