Erling Haaland is missing for real! Man City hitman DROPPED for Aston Villa clash after on-field no-show against Arsenal as Kevin De Bruyne sits out too

Erling Haaland has been dropped from the starting line-up for Manchester City's crucial Premier League clash against Aston Villa.

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Article continues below

• Haaland dropped for Villa match
• De Bruyne also on bench
• Norwegian hitman called 'League Two' player by Keane

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  The Norwegian was relegated to the bench for the match against Unai Emery's side, three days after his anonymous showing in the top-of-the-table showdown against Arsenal. Kevin De Bruyne was also named on the bench against Villa, who were the last team to beat the champions.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Haaland was humiliatingly described as a 'League Two' striker by Roy Keane after the 1-1 draw with the Gunners, prompting a fierce response from Pep Guardiola in Tuesday's press conference. The striker has failed to score in his last three matches for City and missed a gilt-edged chance against Arsenal.

• DID YOU KNOW?

  Despite all the criticism he has received, Haaland remains the top scorer in the Premier League with 18 goals, two more than nearest challengers Mohamed Salah, Dominic Solanke and Ollie Watkins. Villa striker Watkins has been ruled out of Wednesday's game at the Etihad Stadium with injury.

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  WHAT NEXT FOR CITY?

  Julian Alvarez starts in place of Haaland while Jeremy Doku and Jack Grealish are among four changes in the line-up. City will be looking to bounce back from the draw against Arsenal and keep in touch with the Gunners and Premier League leaders Liverpool before visiting Crystal Palace on Saturday.