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The English top flight kicks off again this round of fixtures following the international break, with managers providing vital fitness reports ahead of the weekend's matches.

Anfield Side Face Major Missing Players

Anfield coach Arne Slot has revealed that the young defender, the Dutch full-back, and Wirtz will all miss this upcoming fixture against Nottingham Forest.

On a positive note, number one keeper the Brazilian has regained full health from his muscle problem and is fit to play.

Slot revealed that Gomez missed training yesterday but is expected to be available for selection, though it's unlikely he'll be used for the complete game.

Turf Moor Side Have Positive Update on Their Striker

Turf Moor coach Parker has stated that forward the Albanian may have "avoided serious injury" after suffering an knock while playing for Albania against England.

The striker left the game on a medical cart, but follow-up examinations have indicated the injury is "much less severe than feared."

Parker commented that Broja has been in training since Wednesday and could still feature versus his former club the London side on the weekend.

Newcastle Injury Updates

St James' Park coach Eddie Howe has given updates on several important squad members ahead of their fixture against the champions.

Anthony Gordon has "put in significant effort" to return from his hip injury and is "questionable" for the weekend's match.

Livramento is "very close" after recovering from a serious knee issue and is also in the running for selection.

Pope is "alright" after completing head injury assessment, while the Brazilian and the Italian are both ready to take on City.

Upcoming Top Flight Matches

• Chelsea travel to Burnley (Sat early kickoff BST)
• Liverpool host Forest (3pm)
• Bournemouth v West Ham (standard kickoff)
• Palace visit Molineux (afternoon)
• Brentford travel to Brighton (afternoon)
• Sunderland visit Craven Cottage (afternoon)
• The Magpies host City (late kickoff)
• Villa visit Elland Road (Sunday early kickoff)
• Spurs visit the Emirates (Sunday 4.30pm)
• Man United v Everton (Mon evening kickoff)

Managerial Spotlight on Eddie Howe

The Magpies could find themselves in the bottom three if they lose against Manchester City and other matches in other games are unfavorable.

The omens don't look good for Eddie Howe, who has never won Pep Guardiola in eighteen past top flight attempts.

Howe's history against Pep stands at two draws and sixteen unsuccessful attempts from their historical matchups.

"Our progress and without doubt I've seen a significant progress from us," said Burnley boss Parker. "It's only minor aspects at this present moment in time."

The return of top flight matches comes after a chaotic international break that included remarkable moments including Scotland's dramatic qualification for the international competition.