The Dugout Discussion – Sunday

Sunday’s fare is dominated by the late kick-off, as Fantasy managers prepare for the return of Segio Aguero in anticipation of immediate rewards as City take on Arsenal. Before that, we have to show patience as West Ham host struggling Hull City in east London – a potentially coarse and bland starter before our lip-smacking main dish.

The Hammers still deserve our attention, however. Stewart Downing’s form continues to sparkle as his reputation of West Ham’s creator supreme blossoms. Andy Carroll is often the target for Downing’s probing passing and crossing. The big Geordie takes on a beleaguered Hull rearguard off the back of that untypical strike at Swansea; he’ll be looking to add his name to our Wildcard mix with another notable display.

The day is all about City and Aguero, however, with the Argentine expected to earn his first start since his being limited to just six minutes against Everton back in Gameweek 15. Prior to that fateful match, Aguero had fired 11 goals in nine league outings, making him indispensible as a Fantasy asset. Having regained fitness and returned to the turf, ironically against Everton last weekend, we’re now expecting Aguero to hit the ground running as the Gunners pay visit to the Etihad.

Alexis Sanchez may have other ideas. The Chilean arrives in Manchester fresh from a devastating 19-point haul against Stoke and will go head-to-head with Aguero in a battle of the South American destroyers. I’m putting a tenner on a James Milner hat-trick.