Manchester City will get much-needed reinforcements in the return of Yaya and Kolo Toure to their squad as they travel to Southampton.
Southampton vs. Manchester City: Preview and TV schedule
Southampton will look to pick up their first win under new boss Mauricio Pocchettino, but they will have a difficult task in overcoming a Manchester City side that will welcome back Kolo and Yaya Toure.
The brothers will be available following Ivory Coast's early exit in the Africa Cup of Nations, and with Yaya Toure a key player for the Citizens, Roberto Mancini will be hoping he can help give the team a boost as they look to cut Manchester United's lead at the top of the table.
They will have a difficult test, however, in overcoming a Southampton side who have looked impressive under new manager Mauricio Pocchettino, although the Saints have so far been unable to turn their good play into a victory. More clinical performances and better defending will be key for them if they are to avoid the drop, which could be helped by the return of Adam Lallana and the introduction of January signing Vegard Forren.
For Manchester City, they will have the opportunity to cut their rivals Manchester United's lead to six points before the Red Devils play Everton the following day. The title race will heat up soon, and with United juggling Champions League fixtures, now would be the perfect time to embark on a winning streak.
Southampton injuries and suspensions
Out: Jose Fonte. In doubt: Luke Shaw (ligament), Nathaniel Clyne, Gaston Ramirez, Guly Do Prado, Adam Lallana (knee).
Manchester City injuries and suspensions
In doubt: Vincent Kompany (calf)
Southampton will have to give late tests to a number of players after their first-choice fullbacks, Luke Shaw and Nathaniel Clyne, were both pulled out of England Under-21s duty. They could welcome back Gaston Ramirez, Guly Do Prado or Adam Lallana, but Jose Fonte is definitely out.
Manchester City are only worrying about Vincent Kompany, who could make an early return from injury. They will also welcome back Kolo and Yaya Toure after the Ivory Coast’s exit from the Africa Cup of Nations.
Match Date\Time: Saturday, 5:30 p.m. local
Venue: St. Mary’s Stadium, Southampton, England
TV: FOX Soccer Channel (U.S. English), FOX Deportes (U.S. Spanish), ESPN (U.K.), Sportsnet Regional (Canada)
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