Ranieri’s Fitness Update: Schmeichel & Slimani

- Schmeichel fractured his hand during the goalless draw with FC Copenhagen 

- Slimani is in contention after missing City’s last two fixtures 

Ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with West Bromwich Albion, Claudio Ranieri gave an update on the fitness of Kasper Schmeichel and Islam Slimani. 

Schmeichel is set for a spell on the sidelines after fracturing his hand during the goalless draw with FC Copenhagen on Wednesday. 

The City stopper underwent surgery on Thursday after returning from Denmark, but Ranieri is not putting a deadline on his return to fitness. 

“It’s unlucky but that’s it,” said Ranieri. “I’m confident with [Ron-Robert] Zieler so it’s okay. Kasper [Schmeichel] was in very good condition but also Zieler gives me all the confidence. 

“I know yesterday (Thursday), last night, he had an operation. The surgeon said everything is okay. Now it depends how long. 

“Only on the night he felt something and thought what happened. It’s unbelievable. Maybe the adrenaline or concentration meant he didn’t feel anything. 

“Of course he’s not so happy. It’s normal and when you’re in fantastic form you hope you don’t get injured. He made a good save and punched the ball but it’s unbelievable he didn’t feel anything. 

“I don’t want to put a deadline (on Schmeichel’s return) because every man is different. Maybe two, three, five, six or maybe seven weeks – I don’t know.” 

Meanwhile, Ranieri confirmed Slimani is in contention after missing the clashes with Tottenham Hotspur and FC Copenhagen due to a minor groin strain. 

The City boss added: “I think Slimani is okay. Yesterday we made a training session in Copenhagen and tomorrow I will check. 

“Just [Nampalys] Mendy is out but he’s getting better. He has started to train and maybe after the international break he is ready.”