Old faces meet the new on Sunday, Benjani will finally get to say goodbye to his adoring Pompey fans.
Vital Quotes:
Sven is in familiar territory again this week, Frank Shinawatra has spoken out and told of his disappointment at Citys’ performance over the final half of the season, bit like being the England boss again eh Sven?
City have certainly faded off the European radar since the turn of the year, they were in contention for a Champions league spot for a while, but even the UEFA cup looks a distant dream now. In fact only the Manchester derby win has kept the City faithful on a high.
To be fair though, City have made strides this term, one more point and they will have surpassed any previous tally in the Premiership so far.
Manchester City Team News:
Micah Richards is recovering fast from his knee op, but not fast enough to figure tomorrow, Onuoha is out for the rest of the season after popping his shoulder.
Joe Hart should be fit after taking a whack against Sunderland, so Jamo can face up to another rival for his No1 spot for England once more.
Player to watch: Benjani
Big Benj has struggled for goals since his deadline day (extension permitting) switch, but we know all about his commitment and energy, he will cover every blade of grass in pursuit of another City goal to add to the one against rivals United.
He promised no celebration if he were to score against his old mates, hopefully Sol and Jamo can combine to make sure he is not even tempted.
Pompey Team News:
Utaka the otter is back in full training, Diarra and Aubey have also returned to full fitness, but Diarra looks like he will be the only one walking straight back into the team, probably at the expense of Davis, but after last weeks showing Muntari may make way.
Baros is another who looks to have shaken off his knock, he will contest with Kanu and Nugent to partner Defoe up front.
Player to watch: Distin
Defoe is our obvious threat at the other end of the pitch, but Distin takes his classy defensive skills back to Eastlands to show them what they are missing, he may get a mixed reception after walking out on them last year to join Pompey, but few City fans would not welcome him back into their side.
Match Facts & Stats
You have to go back to the sixties for a last Pompey win away to City, but how many times have Pompey put a stat like that to bed this season?
Ref Watch:
Andre Marriner
Match Prediction:
City have only lost 3 at home this term, but Pompey are away day specialists, what price on another hoodoo laid to rest? place your scores here.
Next Fixtures:
Blackburn next Sunday at Fratton