The Dugout Discussion – Sunday

The Gameweek rolls on with one of those “titanic clashes” between the Manchester rivals.

A potential feast for the neutral, City host United in an encounter that boasts a rich supply of attacking talent and a pair of suspect defences: there will surely be goals on offer. Fantasy managers will certainly be hoping that’s the case, with Sergio Aguero and Angel di Maria found in 25% and 38% of Fantasy Premier League squads respectively.

The team news from the Etihad finds Wayne Rooney making a return to the United lineup following suspension, with Juan Mata dropping to the bench as expected. Antonio Valencia earns a start, presumably at right-back, with Rafael missing out through injury sustained in training on Thursday. City are also forced into changes as David Silva sits out with a knee injury, while Edin Dzeko drops to the bench. Eliaquim Mangala is out of the City squad with reports suggesting that he’s nursing a hip problem – James Milner, Martin Demichelis and Stevan Jovetic all earn starts for Manuel Pellegrini. The Chilean has also been forced into a late change, with Aleks Kolarov injuring himself in the warm-up to be replaced by Gael Clichy.

The big derby clash is followed at 4pm by Tottenham’s trip to Aston Villa – a suitably stodgy dessert to follow today’s big roast.