Manchester City v Liverpool

Although Liverpool could hardly be considered top Premier League club today, they undoubtedly are capable to pose a tough challenge to the defending champions. It is to be recalled that the previous Premier League clash between the Reds and the Citizens at the Anfield ended in a 2-2 draw. As always, Carloz Tevez stepped up when Man City needed him most and scored an excellent goal in the 80th minute to earn an important draw away from home.

Should Liverpool get something from the game, Man Utd try and seize the opportunity to extend their lead in the Premier League. Currently the Red Devils lie seven points ahead of the second-placed Citizens and Roberto Mancini starting to feel the pressure. Their lackluster scoreless draw against bottom dwellers QPR on Wednesday was a disappointment. It is a great piece of luck for Man City that Chelsea are struggling and not capable to pose the serious threat to their current position. Man City boss has to put forth eloquence and convince his lads to bring A game.

Brendan Rodgers seems to be on the right track with Liverpool as team’s performance is gradually improving. Sometimes the Reds are even capable to compete with the top Premier League sides (and the attacking display delivered by the team in a 2-2 draw with Man City proves the point). However they are not likely to finish in the top-four due to the lack of consistency (e.g. they lost two goal lead against Arsenal to draw 2-2 in the previous game). The Reds have also made it through to the knockout stages of the Europa League which is a decent achievement for the current Liverpool side. The forthcoming fixtures surely will not be a walk in the park for Brendan Rodgers’ side as they face Man City, Arsenal, Everton and Tottenham.

Man City team news

Man City set to miss their captain Vincent Kompany due to a calf injury. Micah Richards is on team’s long-term injury list while brothers Yaya and Kolo Toure are on international duty with Ivory Coast.

Liverpool team news

Liverpool best players are fit and ready to face the defending champions with Luis Suarez scoring a goal a game, Pepe Reina reliably acting between the sticks and Gerrard being prepared to lead his teammates a victory. Recently arrived Coutinho and Sturridge can also make a difference.