Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola fears defender Aymeric Laporte could be set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines after he was carried off on a stretcher during his side’s 4-0 victory over Brighton.
The French defender appeared to injure his knee during the first half of Saturday’s game at Etihad Stadium after attempting to tackle Brighton defender Adam Webster.
The 25-year-old stayed on the turf in obvious pain and after lengthy treatment had to be carried from the field and replaced by Fernandinho.
Speaking after the game, Guardiola gave a gloomy assessment as to the severity of the injury and fears the former Athletic man could be out for some time.
“I think he's gone to hospital. It doesn’t look good,” Guardiola told reporters.
“I don’t know right now what he has but we will know tomorrow. They’re diagnosing what he has right now.
“I’m waiting for the doctor to call me. He might be out for a while.”
Laporte’s injury was the only negative on what was otherwise a comfortable afternoon for the Premier League champions, who eased to a 4-0 victory.
Kevin De Bruyne gave City an early lead with Sergio Aguero doubling their advantage before half-time, shortly after Laporte’s departure.
Aguero made it 3-0 early in the second half with his sixth goal of the season before substitute Bernardo Silva completed the scoring with 11 minutes remaining.
Looking back on the game Guardiola said the scoreline was not a fair reflection and praised Brighton for their positive approach.
“The game was tough,” said the Spaniard.
“If we analyse the result it was 4-0, but it was tough. Few teams come here and play with such courage.
“My players are good players and they made the difference - that’s why we won today.”
Guardiola also took time out to praise Aguero, who has found the back of the net in all four games he has played this season.
“From day one I’ve been impressed by Sergio Aguero's commitment,” he added.
“We need his goals, everyone knows it. Even on the days when he doesn’t score goals, his commitment is fantastic.
“I’m happy for him and the team because he helps us a lot with the goals.”