Manchester City could have forward Samir Nasri available for their New Year's Day Premier League clash with Stoke if they decide to appeal against his sending-off at Norwich.
Striker Mario Balotelli (virus) is not yet ready to return while full-backs Aleksandar Kolarov and Maicon (knee) also remain on the sidelines.
Defender Micah Richards (knee) and midfielder Jack Rodwell (hamstring) are still long-term casualties.
Stoke midfielder Steven Nzonzi will be available after appealing against his sending-off on Saturday, when he was shown a red card for an alleged stamp on Southampton's Jack Cork.
Geoff Cameron returns after serving a suspension for accruing five yellow cards and could replace Ryan Shotton at right-back.
Rory Delap (hernia) and Marc Wilson (broken leg) are both unavailable for the Potters.
