Bernardo Silva misses today’s game (Photo by Dave Howarth – CameraSport via Getty Images)

Manchester City playmaker Bernardo Silva was a notable absentee from the squad that arrived at the Etihad to take on Huddersfield today.

Pep Guardiola’s men kick off their defence of the FA Cup with a third round clash against the Yorkshire side this afternoon.

While Erling Haaland remains out, there was the welcomed return of Jeremy Doku to the matchday squad .

Rodri and Kevin de Bruyne were also spotted arriving at the Etihad, in a major boost to Guardiola as the Spaniard looks to step-up City’s title defence in the New Year.

But Silva – who has been one of the side’s standout players this term – was not spotted getting off the team bus.

Silva is expected back next week. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)

It sparked fears among supporters that the Portuguese midfielder could have sustained an injury and could face a spell on the sidelines.

But Silva is ill, and is expected to recover in time for the trip to Newcastle next weekend.

Kalvin Phillips was another absent member of the squad, as the speculation continues over his future at the Etihad.

The England midfielder is free to leave City and has attracted interest from Newcastle and Juventus.

MORE : Manchester United can forget recent problems with an emphatic FA Cup success at Wigan

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There was no Erling Haaland either…