PREMIER LEAGUE football is back with a bang as Manchester City host Liverpool at the Etihad – and top spot is up for grabs.
Some would argue that the Treble winners haven’t been firing on all cylinders this season having already lost twice in the league.
And that evidence was further supported when Pep Guardiola’s men were forced to share the spoils in a 4-4 thriller against Chelsea just before the international break.
However, City still find themselves sitting pretty at the summit of the table – reclaiming top spot from Tottenham who had occupied it for a number of weeks.
But breathing down their necks is a Liverpool side with the joint-best defence in the division and the Reds are fresh from thumping Brentford 3-0 at Anfield.
With just a point separating the two English giants, it promises to be nothing short of entertaining, especially if VAR makes its unpopular appearance.
Pep Guardiola would have been sweating over the fitness of Erling Haaland who was forced to pull out of Norway’s squad to face Scotland with an ankle issue.
But reports suggest that the goal machine should be fit enough to feature in this thrilling lunchtime encounter.
However, Rodri, Nathan Ake, Ederson, John Stones, Matheus Nunes and Mateo Kovacic will all need to be assessed.
While Kevin de Bruyne continues his road to recovery following a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Elsewhere, Jurgen Klopp could be spoilt for choice as FIVE players look set to return.
Alexis Mac Allister, Joe Gomez, Ryan Gravenberch, Ibrahima Konate and Curtis Jones are likely to be fit and available for selection.
As for the trio of Andy Robertson, Thiago and Stefan Bajcetic, this match has come a little too soon for them to be involved.
*Odds courtesy of Paddy Power are correct at time of publication
