While Norwich City certainly aren't the form team in the Premier League anymore, they should present a bit of a decent challenge to Manchester City on Saturday. After all, City were poor against Sunderland in a loss on Boxing Day, and Norwich own wins over Arsenal and Manchester United.
Norwich City vs. Manchester City: It’s job preservation day for Roberto Mancini
Okay, so the Manchester City directors want Pep Guardiola, and he’s on vacation until May. Still, Roberto Mancini might still get fired soon, right?
Roberto Mancini has to be feeling the pressure at City following his team's elimination from Champions League, their loss in the Manchester Derby and their recent Boxing Day loss, even if there's no terrific replacement available at the moment. Pep Guardiola's vacation and Jose Mourinho's seemingly impending departure from Real Madrid are probably keeping Mancini in a job, but City's directors might have to look towards an interim solution at the club if they fall further behind Manchester United on the weekend.
Norwich City injuries and suspensions
Out: John Ruddy (thigh), Steven Whittaker (hip), Andrew Surman (knee). In doubt: Ryan Bennett (knee)
Manchester City injuries and suspensions
Out: Aleksandar Kolarov (knee), Maicon (knee), Micah Richards (knee), Jack Rodwell (hamstring). In doubt: Samir Nasri (hamstring), Carlos Tevez (illness), Mario Balotelli (illness).
None of Norwich’s injuries are new concerns. City are dealing with a number of players who have various slight fitness and illness concerns. Expect Nasri and Tevez to make the 18-man squad, but Balotelli is very much in doubt with a virus.
Game date/time: Saturday, 3 p.m. local, 10 a.m. ET
Venue: Carrow Road, Norwich, England
TV: FOX Soccer (U.S. - English), FOX Deportes (U.S. - Spanish), Sportsnet regional networks (Canada)
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