As the Premier League returns from the Christmas break, champions Manchester City will host Everton at the Etihad Stadium on Thursday.
City find themselves in uncharted territory, outside the top six and 12 points behind leaders Liverpool, having won just one of their last 12 matches in all competitions.
Director Pep Guardiola will desperately need his team to get back on track against an Everton side who have improved in recent weeks.
The Toffees have picked up seven points from their last four games, keeping four clean sheets during that stretch. However, they face an uphill task against a City side who have not lost at home to Everton in 13 matches.
Team News
Manchester City could be without defender John Stones, who suffered a foot injury in the defeat to Aston Villa last time out.
Goalkeeper Ederson is also doubtful. Ruben Dias, Oscar Bobb and Rodri remain sidelined for the hosts.
Everton welcome back Armando Broja after he was ineligible to face parent club Chelsea last weekend. However, Dominic Calvert-Lewin is expected to continue leading the line despite his recent goal drought. Midfielder Dwight McNeil is doubtful after missing the Chelsea game.
Planned lineups
Manchester City: (4-2-3-1)
Ortega;
Walker, Akanji, Ake, Gvardiol;
De Bruyne, Kovacic;
Savinho, Foden, Doku;
Haaland
Everton: (4-5-1)
Pickford;
Coleman, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko;
Harrison, Gueye, Mangala, Doucoure, Ndiaye;
Calvert-Lewin
Despite their recent struggles, Manchester City should have enough quality to overcome an Everton side who have relied heavily on their defensive resilience this season. A home win for the champions is the expected result.
