Manchester City will seek to retake top spot in the Premier League without the services of Sergio Aguero when they face Cardiff City at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday.

The Citizens’ leading marksman went off against Fulham on Saturday through injury and has not yet trained this week. Manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that Aguero is “not able” to feature against Neil Warnock’s team.

“He didn’t train the last two days. He is not able [to play],” said the City boss. “Hopefully next Saturday, next Wednesday. We will see his evolution in the next few days.”

Cardiff suffered a dramatic and controversial late turnaround on Sunday when they lost 2-1 against Chelsea, with manager Neil Warnock incensed that Cezar Azpilicueta’s leveller wasn’t chalked off for offside.

That effort showed that Cardiff can be dangerous, says Guardiola, who isn’t taking victory for granted despite the Welsh outfit being six points from safety and 18th in the standings. With Manchester City competing for honours on three fronts as they seek an unprecedented quadruple, Guardiola is determined that every single game gets maximum respect.

“They are not a team that is already done,” he said of Cardiff. “They have spirit and what they do, they do well. We know how we are going to play. For us it is a final – every single game.

“Cardiff what I saw against Chelsea is alive. They have incredible spirit. It is there but we want to be there too.” Cardiff have lost all 10 Premier League away matches versus established top six teams this season.

Man City are 6.00 to beat Cardiff City 3-0. The Bluebirds are 41.00 to win, while the draw is 15.00.