Southampton will be looking for revenge when they travel to Manchester City for the second time this week after a 3-1 cup defeat at the Etihad on Tuesday.
Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side fell short in the Carabao Cup, but return to the blue side of Manchester again on Saturday for their Premier League clash with the champions.
Sergio Aguero’s brace and Nicolas Otamendi’s header was enough to secure City;s place in the quarter-finals of the Carabao Cup, despite Jack Stephens nodding in a late consolation.
But Saints will expect a tougher test this time around, with City having rested several key players in mid-week, with them all set to return tomorrow.
The last time Southampton locked horns with City in the top flight, the champions inflicted a heavy 6-1 defeat on then Mark Hughes’ side.
Tomorrow’s encounter will be the first league game since Saints were on the wrong end of the 9-0 thumping from Leicester last Friday, with every player eager to avoid another result of that nature.
I take a look at the Key Battles ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Manchester City…
Valery vs Sterling
Raheem Sterling missed out in mid-week, and will undoubtedly return tomorrow.
He will play a huge part in the end result come full-time, and Yan Valery will need to put in some performance to keep him quiet.
Bednarek vs Jesus
Gabriel Jesus appeared as more of a left-sided forward on Tuesday, but with Guardiola’s squad rotation in full effect, the Brazilian could lead the line again tomorrow.
Jan Bednarek could have the job of trying to keep an eye on him, but will face another tough task.
Ings vs Stones
Danny Ings didn’t feature on Tuesday for Saints, and could be drafted back in to the side tomorrow.
He will be Southampton’s main outlet so will need to be hold the ball up and bring others into play, otherwise risk getting nowhere and offering nothing in the final third.
Danso vs Bernardo Silva
Bernardo Silva is, for me, one of the most underrated players in the Premier League.
His skill, vision and agility make him a very tough player to mark out of a game and if Danso plays as a left centre-back or left-back, he could have a very busy afternoon on his hands.
Romeu vs De Bruyne
Oriol Romeu has been an ever present for Saints so far this season, so it is quite likely that trend will continue tomorrow.
His main job will be trying to snuff out the danger from none other than Kevin De Bruyne.
The Belgian’s creativity, vision and class eye for goal could make him the heart of City’s play, unless Romeu can stop him…