'It's taken a toll': Steve Bruce promises 'a few changes' to Newcastle United team

Bruce’s squad played five games in a 15-day period after the Premier League’s resumption following a three-month suspension due to the coronavirus pandemic.

And United’s head coach has admitted that Allan Saint-Maximin – who has started every game since the restart – is “struggling” along with Miguel Almiron, the club’s leading goalscorer.

Jamaal Lascelles (ankle) and Andy Carroll (groin) are also doubtful for this evening's game at the Etihad Stadium.

“We'll see how they are,” said Bruce. “I thought after Bournemouth, Saint-Max couldn't go again. However, he bounced into training was bright as a button. We'll see how we are, see what we've got. But, certainly, there’ll be a few changes.

“I think that's inevitable with the schedule we've had. We'll see what we've got, and make sure we put together a team to try to compete with City.”

Bruce has already lost midfielders Isaac Hayden and Sean Longstaff to hamstring injuries.

“Unfortunately, we have picked up one or two (injuries),” said Bruce. “It's fair to say Almiron and Saint-Maximin, in particular, are struggling, Andy Carroll picked up a groin strain, Jamaal has got a sore ankle that he's had problems with in the past, so, in that respect, we've got a few.

“But I suspect most of the Premier League will be thinking exactly the same. When we're approaching the fifth and sixth game, then obviously it's going to take its toll.”