Premier League football returns on Saturday when Manchester City host Liverpool in the lunchtime kick-off.
The Blues head into clash in first place and are a point clear of Jurgen Klopp’s chasers, who haven't won in the league at the Etihad since 2015 - before Pep Guardiola’s time in Manchester. Liverpool’s away record this season is also a little patchy and the Merseyside club have failed to win any of the last three league matches on the road.
In fact, Liverpool have won just two of their six away matches, even if their home form has been exemplary. So has City’s, and the Blues have won 23 on the bounce at the Etihad in all competitions. If the European champions can extend that record next weekend then it will equal an all-time English record.
After an early-Autumn blip, City have recovered of late and won five of their six matches between the October and November international break, the exception being the sensational 4-4 draw against Chelsea last time out. Across those six matches, City managed an incredible 21 goals and Guardiola’s side are getting back to their best.
That’s come at a good time, with fixtures against top-five opposition in the next three (Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa), but the City boss will be concerned at the mounting injuries issues among his squad.
Ederson, Nathan Ake, Mateo Kovacic and Matheus Nunes withdrew from international duty over the break, while Erling Haaland became the fifth player to suffer a problem when he received on-field treatment in the 2-0 victory against the Faroe Islands. The problem kept him out of last Sunday's 3-3 draw with Scotland, although he was seen training during the week and Guardiola said he is 'hopeful' the striker will be back for the Liverpool clash.
In addition, Sergio Gomez is a doubt, while John Stones and Kevin De Bruyne are definitely ruled out with longer-term issues. With all that in mind, here’s how City could line up for Saturday’s meeting against Liverpool…
1. GK: Ederson
One of the many injury doubts, but Guardiola will hope the goalkeeper is fit to start against Liverpool.
2. RB: Kyle Walker
Has played more minutes than anyone this season for City.
3. CB: Manuel Akanj
Scored last time out in the 4-4 draw against Chelsea.
4. CB: Ruben Dias
His performance at Stamford Bridge came in for criticism after a few defensive errors.