Manchester City will play hosts to Leicester City on Monday in what could potentially turn out to be a title decider.
The defending champions are trailing league leaders Liverpool by two points with a game in-hand. That means a win could be imperative as they look to defend their Premier League crown this season.
Here are three key battles that could decide the outcome of this important clash.
Ilkay Gundogan vs Wilfred Ndidi
With Fernandinho doubtful, the German international will be crucial in the holding midfield role.
This could be an excellent opportunity for Wilfred Ndidi to impose his presence in the middle third, given Gundogan’s lack of defensive work-rate.
The Leicester City midfielder is known for his aggression and will look to restrict the German from too much time on the ball.
As for Gundogan, the onus will be on him to facilitate the midfield with his impressive passing range whilst evading the Leicester City press, led by the relentless Ndidi.
Sergio Aguero vs Harry Maguire/Jonny Evans
Manchester City forward Sergio Aguero will look to overtake Mohamed Salah in the top scorer’s charts on Monday. The Argentine has been in incredible form this season, scoring 31 goals in 44 games in all competitions.
However, Aguero will have to deal with Leicester’s defensive stalwart Harry Maguire, who is a no-nonsense defender. The centre-half has been in good form under Brendan Rodgers, and will look to stop Aguero in his tracks.
Maguire will also expect some support from his partner Jonny Evans, who will likely get the nod ahead of Caglar Soyuncu and Wes Morgan in central defence.
Oleksandr Zinchenko vs Marc Albrighton
Marc Albrighton’s return to full fitness has been a boon for Leicester City and Brendan Rodgers. However, it has also forced Demarai Gray out of the starting eleven in recent weeks.
Albrighton’s work rate and ability to close down opposition defenders when they are on the ball will be key against the Sky Blues who like to keep the ball.
That being said, he will be up against the incredibly gifted Zinchenko on the left-flank. The Ukrainian international has impressed throughout this season and the onus will be on Albrighton to restrict his tendency to run forward and attack.