It took just 18 minutes for Pep Guardiola's fears to become reality when the 33-year-old appeared to pick up a hamstring injury. Walker - named captain in Harry Kane's absence - tried to battle on but ultimately signalled to the bench moments later.

The setback looked as though it took place while the defender hurried to scramble a Vinicius Jr shot off the line. Gareth Southgate took no risks with Walker, sending Aston Villa star Ezri Konsa on for his international debut.

City fans will be praying the substitution was merely precautionary given their upcoming fixtures. Guardiola's men face a mammoth Premier League clash against Arsenal next and are also fighting on the FA Cup and Champions League fronts.

Walker's battle with Vinicius Jr was short-lived and City fans will be hoping he returns for the European clash against Real Madrid on April 9. Social media was rife with anger once Walker was hooked - with one supporter slamming the "meaningless" fixture.

"Could be precautionary. Could be serious. Point stands, these matches are completely unnecessary." Another echoed those comments, venting his own frustrations at the March international break.