Everton v MAN CITY – PREVIEW: City’s Probable Team

Just four games to go and destiny is in our own hands. A win at Goodison Park and Champions League qualification is virtually secured. A loss, and we would still have breathing space although it could become nervy.

Our record against Everton is, to put it mildly, atrocious. We won there in 2009, but apart from that, we have struggled aginst them in recent times. They completed the double over us last season, recorded a win at Eastlands earlier in this season and are generally recognised as our bogey team. But what better time than now to shatter that illusion!

With regards to team selection, Micah Richards could return to the bench after missing the past few games with an injury. Fellow right back Pablo Zabaleta, however, is fit and will start after taking a knock in the dying moments against West Ham. Nigel de Jong, replaced at half time in that game, should be fit enough to start, but Carlos Tévez is not yet ready.

The only major selection dilemma is whether Mancini feel it is time for Edin Dzeko, who has looked sharper in the past couple of games, to come into the starting line-up. James Milner could also start in place of Adam Johnson, depending on how Mancini intends to set up the team, but I expect City to be unchanged for the fourth game in a row.

Here is the side I expect Mancini to select:

Although Everton have a reputation as a strong, physical side, they possess a number of talented players offensively, none more so that Mikel Arteta. His creativity, movement and interplay are reminiscent of our own Spaniard, David Silva, and when combined in midfield with the likes of Fellaini, Osman and Cahill, it’s no wonder to see how the Toffees are so competitive year in year out.

Their backline always seem to have a blinder against us. The central defensive partnership of Phil Jagielka and former City stalwart Sylvain Distin, are quick, strong and a no-nonsense pairing, whilst Leighton Baines is one of the best left backs in the league. It will need a strong team ethic and willing desire if City are to get anything from this game.

Referee: Phil Dowd – A fairly safe pair of hands. Can’t remember his officiating too many City games this season, but he’s regarded highly and is a good communicator with the players.

Prediction: Everton 1 – 1 MAN CITY – Will be a tight affair, a tough battle and not the most exhilirating watch. There won’t be many goals in it, but I’m predicting Tim Cahill and Yaya Touré to get on the scoresheet.