Man City to be back at their ruthless best
Manchester City face Spurs in a re-match of one of the most extraordinary games in recent seasons but don’t expect another open game.
This is not the Champions League
There is no doubt that fans will have appreciated the wonderful game between Tottenham and Manchester City at the Etihad in mid-week. Both sides were really going for it and it was a thoroughly enjoyable game.
However, not to put a dampener on this rematch, you shouldn’t expect the same kind of game in this one. Guardiola once said himself that European football is a different beast (might be paraphrasing a little here) but in the Premier League the Spaniard's side have been getting the job done.
Manchester City have won each of the last nine consecutive games while conceding just three in that run.
Tottenham, on the other hand, have won back-to-back top-flight games but previously had lost four of the last five. They will have to produce another superb display if they are to earn anything from the Etihad and despite going through on away goals in the Champions League they actually lost the game 4-3.
He’s a Son of a gun
One thing or should that be one man Manchester City need to get to grips with is Son Heung-min. The South Korean star was in lethal form during Tottenham’s Champions League upset and the City defence just couldn’t cope with his pace and ability.
Son has now scored four goals in the last four games in all competitions for Spurs just highlighting how important he has become to the London club.
That will need to change in this rematch if the home side are to pick up a vital three points towards their title defence.
The return of King Fernandinho
One play who is always missed when he’s unavailable for City is Brazilian midfielder Fernandinho. The holding midfielder came on as a substitute in the mid-week fixture following a return from a muscular problem and his presence will be massive for Guardiola’s side.
The Brazilian is excellent in midfield when at his best and can help the home side dominate the middle of the park.
Spurs, on the other hand, will be without Harry Kane, Harry Winks and Serge Aurier while Moussa Sissoko is doubtful and Eric Dier is coming back from a hip injury.
Betting tip
Manchester City will be hurting after going out of the Champions League in controversial circumstances on Wednesday. They conceded far too easily and Guardiola will have them better prepared for this rematch. With that in mind, backing Man City to win to nil at odds of 13/10 is well worth a go.
Post bet chat James's Tips:
Man City were ruthless in this one picking up the three points they needed while keeping a clean-sheet