The Gameweek sparks into life at the Etihad for a fixture that could well provide rich returns. Man City’s encounter with newly promoted Hull looks a one sided affair, a fixture that offers Fantasy managers points at both ends, obvious captaincy options and the opportunity to establish a mini-league swing before the rest of the Premier League kick a ball.
Of course, the reality could be far different. City’s shock defeat at Cardiff offered a reminder as to how the promoted teams can disrupt the established thinking. Steve Bruce, as an experienced campaigner, will be turning up at City with a game plan; it remains to be seen if that will be enough to inflict another setback on Manuel Pellegrini’s men.
The team news finds the City boss make two notable changes to the lineup that suffered defeat in Wales. Matija Nastasic makes his first start of the season in the heart of the defence in place of Javi Garcia, as expected. However, Gael Clichy also makes way: he’s relegated to the bench with Aleks Kolarov given the nod at left-back. Edin Dzeko partners Sergio Aguero in attack once again, with Alvaro Negredo remaining benched. Stevan Jovetic makes his first appearance amongst the subs as he builds his fitness.
Visitors Hull are forced into one change: with Yannick Sagbo suspended, Danny Graham earns a recall to the starting XI having been relegated to the bench for the victory over Norwich.
Our Dugout Discussion chatroom is open for this first match and they’ll be a further post prior to the three o’clock kick-offs bringing you the significant team news from those encounters.
