Following the humdrum international break, the Premier League is back.
And England’s in-form side Manchester City are in action against the high flying Crystal Palace at 3pm on Saturday, and Manuel Pellegrini’s side are the firm favourites to extend their lead at the top of the table.
Manuel Pellegrini could hand Nicolas Otamendi and Kevin De Bruyne their away debuts; however, the Chilean manager isn’t likely to make any significant changes to his starting line up.
Here’s our predicted XI:
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GK – Joe Hart
The England international is yet to concede a goal in the Premier League this season, and while his job has been made easier by the excellent form of his team-mates, he still has to be on top form.
RB – Bacary Sagna
Fortunate to be getting a run in the side with firm first-choice Pablo Zabaleta out with a knee injury. However, the Frenchman has stepped up to the plate superbly and could give Zabaleta a run for his money upon his return to fitness. The concern remains whether Sagna is able to play after being forced off on international duty.
CB – Eliaquim Mangala
Mangala and Kompany have formed a formidable partnership in the heart of the defence, and new boy Nicolas Otamendi could struggle to push either centre-back out of Pellegrini’s side.
CB – Vincent Kompany
The City captain was rightly criticised for his performances last season, but looks to have returned to his best. He’s proved pretty handy in front of goal, too, scoring two goals in their first four games.
LB – Aleksandar Kolarov
Kolarov’s magical left foot leaves goalkeepers trembling at set pieces. He looks set for his fifth start having pushed Gael Clichy out of the side.
RCM – Fernandinho
An ideal partner for Yaya Toure – allowing the Ivory Coast international to push forward while he commands a deeper role. Fernandinho could be key to City’s title hopes in keeping their attacking midfield secure.
LCM – Yaya Toure
Toure’s absence at the Africa Cup of Nations was perhaps key in seeing Chelsea extend their lead after the festive period. City will want the midfield powerhouse at his best for the next nine months.
RW – Jesus Navas
While often criticised for his lack of end product, Navas remains a regular in the starting line up. He faces new competition from record signing Kevin De Bruyne, however, with his place no longer guaranteed. The Belgian is expected to start on the bench, and Navas should be looking to really impress.
AM – Raheem Sterling
In a major blow to the side, David Silva has been ruled out of the clash with an ankle injury, and while Kevin De Bruyne could be thrown straight into action in a No.10 role, this could pave the way for Sterling to start in a central position.
LW – Samir Nasri
The Frenchman is struggling to cement a position for City, but Silva’s late withdrawal could land him a starting place.
ST – Sergio Aguero
The Argentine is by far the best striker in England. The only concern remains whether City can keep him fit for the entire campaign. Their title rivals will certainly be hoping that isn’t the case.
