On Sky
The Toffees will prove tricky opposition at Goodison Park, a ground which City has had very little to celebrate. The Lescott transfer saga has added a bitter edge to the whole affair and David Moyes’ side thrive on the competition.
This is exactly the type of game in which the Citizens need to be winning if they are to be lifting the much coveted Premier League trophy at the end of the season.
Vital Quotes:
Vincent Kompany extolled the merits of City’s mentality before the Everton game, stating: “There is a belief in the team that we can become even stronger towards the end of the season and that’s very important.
“From now until the end of the campaign is when you need to show your real strength, both physically and mentally.
“We are set up quite nicely for the finish and we’re sure we’re going to get even stronger in the weeks to come.”
Everton Team News:
Everton may have trouble fielding a full defence with Sylvain Distin and Phil Jagielka missing, while
eamus Coleman, Leon Osman and Jack Rodwell also miss out.
Player to watch: Tim Cahill
The Australian has been well below his best so far this season, but a goal in his last game could herald his return to form, a welcome threat that Everton have been lacking massively.
His record against City speaks for itself and he will be chomping at the bit to play a crucial role in City’s downfall this evening.
Manchester City Team News:
The big news for City is that Vincent Kompany returns to sure up the Blues’ shaky defence. His return coincides with the absence of another collossal at the other end of the pitch in Mario Balotelli.
Mancini is extremely short of options up front, especially with the attacking threat of Yaya Toure still absent with his national team.
Player to watch: Edin Dzeko
With Mario Balotelli suspended, Mancini will have no other option than to field the big Bosnian. A run of games may be exactly what the striker needs to regain his captivating start of season form.
While this may be the day City fans are busy admiring captain Vincent Kompany on his return, Everton players will do better to keep an eye Dzeko.
Match Facts & Stats
Everton have also lost only one of their last 13 games against City at home.
Match Prediction:
This game is incredibly tricky to call. If Everton get their noses in front then its all over for City, despite their huff and puff. If City can get the all important lead then they could pull off an unprecidented league double over the Merseysiders. Unfortunately, with City’s current form it’s hightly unlikely they will hold on for the win. I reckon Everton will sneak a late equalizer to end the game all square. Everton 1-1 Manchester City