The influential midfielder has missed three games since suffering a groin injury in City’s victory over Arsenal last month.

Without him City dropped two vital points in the title race as they drew 3-3 at Everton on Monday.

That result has left them trailing Arsenal by five points at the top with a game in hand.

Rodri’s return would give them a huge lift with just five games remaining in all competitions, but manager Pep Guardiola remains unsure when the 29-year-old will return.

“He has a little problem and still he doesn’t feel completely comfortable,” said Guardiola at a press conference on Friday.

“When he will be ready and fit and come back, we will see this afternoon. Hopefully, he will come back.”

Despite missing Rodri’s presence, Guardiola insists the calamitous 13-minute spell in which Everton struck three times last time out did not emphasise his absence.

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He said: “The goals we conceded did not depend on him. We gave them away. They were not because Rodri was not there.”

City now need favours from Arsenal’s remaining three opponents to have a chance of reclaiming the title.

They at least have home advantage in three of their last four league games and Guardiola also hopes they can benefit from playing before the Gunners this weekend.

Mikel Arteta’s side are not in action until their trip to relegation-threatened West Ham on Sunday.

The City boss said: “It’s been a long time since the last game, Arsenal. I love to play at home.

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“Hopefully the fans can come and we can put pressure on Arsenal by winning our games. That is all we can do.”

Brentford have exceeded expectations under Keith Andrews this season and Guardiola expects a tough encounter as the Bees continue to push for European qualification.

He said: “They’ve been so good, an incredible season. They’re clear in what they do and it’s difficult to challenge them but, at the same time, we have three games left at the Etihad and we’ll go for it.”

Guardiola has also backed defender Marc Guehi after his error precipitated Everton’s purple patch in Monday’s game.

He said: “He knows he made a mistake but it’s part of the game. Apart from that, he made a top game.”