After four games in ten days, fatigue will be present within the camp and Mancini will be looking to integrate some of the squad players into the side. The players likely to be handed a rest are Barry, Kompany and Yaya amongst a few others others. The likes of Boateng, Given, Lescott and Vieira should all be handed a start.

Silva is still recovering from a swollen knee sustained against Blackpool but thankfully, should be fit for next weekends fixture versus Wolves. It remains unknown whether Balotelli requires minor knee reconstruction surgery but he too is ruled out for today’s match. Edin Dzeko’s transfer went through too late for him to be included in City’s squad, meaning the Bosnian has time to try and bed-in before making his debut. Pablo Zabaleta has his red card rescinded by the FA and is therefore available for selection.

Hart should get a well-earned rest meaning Given is likely to take the gloves. Lescott is a definite in defence but I am uncertain to who will be selected to partner him. Mancini could opt for Boyata but I think Kolo is likelier to get the nod. The Gaffer has promised to name a strong side and will probably blood Carlos Tevez in attack. The plan will be to bag a few goals and then replace the most important players with the youngsters.  Anyway, I’ll let the diagram do the talking, here’s what I think the team will be: