Match Preview: City vs. Southampton

Following last Sunday's 2-2 draw. City are ultimately travelling a down to the South Coast with it almost crucial for three points. You get the sense that unless City pick up anything other than three points against relegation surviving hopefuls Southampton then City's grip on their crown they claimed so dramatically last May will surly be taken off them. Rumours also in the media occurred last night that Roberto Mancini had left City.

Samir Nasri scoring winner against Southampton last August

After the double set back City faced last week both away to Queens Park Rangers and Liverpool at home, City are now nine points against rivals Manchester United who sadly for City fans don't look like slipping up any time soon whereas City in the last two games have been anything but clinical in front of goal. 

Southampton go into the game looking for a victory against the Champions to ultimately keep them as far away from the drop zone. Manuel Pochettino has only one injury concern ahead of the visit of Mancini's men after Luke Shaw picked up a knock on England under 21 duty during the week.

City go into the game expecting the return of both major figures Yaya Toure from African Cup Of Nations duty and skipper Vincent Kompany returns from a calf injury that he was forced off with in the FA Cup tie away to Stoke two weeks ago. Yaya Toure comes back into the squad after Ivory Coast were knocked out in the semi finals against Nigeria.

Manuel Pochettino still under pressure by the Saints fans would surly be treated as a god almost if his Saint's side manage to over turn the champions at the weekend. Even though Southampton ran City quiet close last August on the opening day of the season, making City come from behind to claim victory. Only three points will ultimately be not good enough if City are to carry on their title race.

Predicted Team:

Prediction: City 1 Southampton 1. Can really see Southampton going out for the draw by setting up most men behind the ball. City will eventually score but a feeling Ricky Lambert's presence may be dangerous to the City defence. Goals from Aguero and Lambert with City yet again to struggle to find that pass again from the midfield to the strikers.