Man City vs Man Utd: Preview, Team News, Likely Line-ups & Predicted Score

Manchester City welcome rivals Manchester United to the Etihad Stadium for what could prove to be a title-deciding game.

Victory for Roberto Mancini’s men will move them top of the league on goal difference, but if Sir Alex Ferguson’s side can avoid defeat they will maintain their three-point lead heading in to the last two games of the season.

However, should United run out winners tonight they would only need one more point from their last two fixtures to secure title number 20.

Man Utd will be looking to avenge the humiliating 6-1 defeat at the hands of City in the reverse fixture at Old Trafford, but go into the game off the back of last weeks 4-4 draw with Everton. The Toffees scored two late goals to rescue a point and give City a huge boost going in tonights game.

Team News

City are able to welcome back Micah Richards after the defender recovered from injury in time to make the squad. Controversial striker Mario Balotteli is also in contention after completing his three-match suspension.

However, the Italian may have to settle for a place on the bench with Roberto Mancini expected to continue with Carlos Tevez and Sergio Aguero up top.

Fergie is sweating on the fitness of Nani and Jonny Evans, who are both doubts for the game, but it’s expected the duo will be fit for the game.

Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are in contention for a recall in place of Rafael da Silva at right back. Long term injury victims Nemanja Vidic, Darren Fletcher and Anderson all remain on the sidelines.

Likely Line-ups

Predicted Score

Man City have a formidable home record this season, having won 21 of their 22 games so far, but haven’t scored at home against the champions for almost five years. United would surely take a draw before the game to keep the destiny of the title in their own hands, and we can see the game ending a stalemate tonight. Man City 1-1 Man Utd.

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