Manchester City will look to regain their place at the top of the table when they host Cardiff City at the Etihad later tonight.
The Citizens are two points behind league leaders Liverpool, but a win against the Bluebirds could help them return to the top.
Manchester City team news
Star striker Sergio Aguero has been ruled out, while Claudio Bravo and Fabian Delph will continue their spell on the sidelines due to their respective injuries.
Vincent Kompany is also unlikely to feature, while Benjamin Mendy is a doubt.
Predicted Manchester City lineup vs Cardiff City
Defence
Kyle Walker could be given a rest, meaning Danilo might deputise the English international in the right-back position.
Oleksandr Zinchenko might retain his place on the opposite flank, in the likely absences of both Delph and Mendy. The youngster will look to use his technical quality to boost Man City’s approach play on the flanks.
John Stones will return to the starting lineup at the expense of Nicolas Otamendi, who will replace the England international on the bench.
Stones will be deployed at the heart of Manchester City’s four-man backline, partnered by the ever-present figure of Aymeric Laporte. The duo will play a vital role not only in defence but also in Manchester City’s build-up play from the back.
Ederson, on the other hand, is undisputedly the number one choice for the side in between the sticks. The Brazilian will look for back to back clean sheets in the Premier League.
Midfield
Fernandinho will be pushing for a start after starting on the bench against Fulham. The Brazilian international will be deployed at the base of Man City’s 4-3-3.
The former Shakhtar man will be partnered by David Silva and Kevin de Bruyne, both of who will operate in slightly advanced midfield roles.
The duo will look to take full advantage of a leaky Cardiff City side that are likely to leave lots of gaps in the half-spaces.
Attack
Gabriel Jesus is expected to spearhead the Manchester City attack in the absence of Aguero. The 21-year-old has struggled with form this season, but will have a chance to impress against a lowly Cardiff side.
Jesus might be partnered by the wide-duo of Raheem Sterling, and Leroy Sane, who will replace Bernardo Silva, with Pep Guardiola having one eye on the important FA Cup fixture against Brighton & Hove Albion this weekend.
