Our Gameweek kicks off at the Etihad where Manchester City protect their impressive home record against a buoyant Everton outfit. Manuel Pellegrini’s men may have put rivals United to the sword in their last home league encounter but, having since suffered defeats at Villa and to Champions League holders Bayern in midweek, the Chilean will approach today’s game with some anxiety.
Opponents Everton will arrive with great confidence. Roberto Martinez’s brand of football has started earning the Toffees results and in Romelu Lukaku they have a force of nature up front who will doubtless cause plenty of concern for a shaky City rearguard.
The team news from Manchester finds City making three changes to that defence, with Aleks Kolarov, Joleon Lescott and Pablo Zabaleta all drafted in after sitting out the midweek Champions League tie: Matija Nastasic, Micah Richards and Gael Clichy all drop to the bench. David Silva also makes a return to league action – significantly, he replaces the in-form Samir Nasri who is left to sit amongst the subs. He’s joined by Edin Dzeko as Alvaro Negredo is again given the nod to lead the attack with Sergio Aguero. Despite speculation in this morning’s press, Joe Hart retains his start in goal.
Roberto Martinez makes just one change with Steven Naismith recalled to replace the ineligible Gareth Barry. That will likely see Leon Osman shift alongside James McCarthy in central midfield, with Naismith lined up on the right-flank. Kevin Mirallas is fit to start on the opposite wing, with Gerard Deulofeu again sitting patiently on the bench awaiting his first league start. Darron Gibson makes a return alongside the Spaniard – it’s his first appearance in a Premier League matchday squad this season.
Our Dugout Discussion has opened early to cater for your real-time chatter requirements and will remain available right up until this evening’s clash at the Stadium of Light.
