The Manchester City team that should start against West Brom
By Mitch Wilks
Manchester City can move to the top of the Premier League table with a win against West Brom on Tuesday evening.
Pep Guardiola's side endured a slow start to the season but have found their groove in recent weeks and their consistent vein of form has helped them capitalise on the shortcomings of fellow rivals, jumping back into the title race.
Despite missing a striker for the most part, City are scoring plenty of goals and creating chances galore, but have also only conceded twice so far in 2021. While moving to the top of the table could only be temporary should Manchester United win their midweek fixture, it would be a vital three points to keep the pressure on their neighbours.
West Brom did nick a draw against City back in December, however, and have done the same against Liverpool since under the tutelage of Sam Allardyce. Here's how the Citizens could line up at the Hawthorns.
1. Goalkeeper & Defenders
Ederson (GK) - The Brazilian dropped out in the FA Cup at the weekend but will return to the XI for league duties.
Kyle Walker (RB) - Walker suffered an injury blow in City's win over Aston Villa which casted doubt over his availability, but has returned to training and will likely start as a result.
John Stones (CB) - Has there been a greater comeback story than Stones' this season? The 26-year-old looks back to his best and has to be playing on the mind of Gareth Southgate once again.
Ruben Dias (CB) - Dias is the man responsible for Stones' resurgence. One of the best signings of the window last summer, he continues to keep Aymeric Laporte reduced to the role of bench warmer with his incredible, authoritative displays.
Joao Cancelo (LB) - Cancelo has also picked up his performance levels massively this season. Capable of playing competently on either flank, his attacking prowess is key to City in possession.
2. Midfielders
Rodri (DM) - When at his best, Rodri is a complete midfielder. Aggressive, intelligent and has the eye for a killer ball. He will need to step up his output even more so in the absence of Kevin De Bruyne.
Bernardo Silva (CM) - With De Bruyne out, Silva is likely to drop back into what City fans feel is his best position. It is a huge chance for the Portugal international to show what he is truly capable of once again.
Ilkay Gundogan (CM) - Gundogan is enjoying a fine run of form of late and is one of the first names on the team sheet. Seven goals in all competitions is an impressive return so far this season.
3. Forwards
Raheem Sterling (RW) - Sterling was an unused substitute in the weekend FA Cup victory against Cheltenham, but will return to the XI for an important clash. It's not been his best season so far, but he is more than capable of turning things around.
Gabriel Jesus (ST) - With Sergio Aguero now out following a positive test for COVID-19, Jesus returns as the central striker. A goal against Cheltenham is exactly what he needed to finally get firing.
Phil Foden (LW) - 14 goal contributions from 18 starts this season, Foden is reaching new heights and thriving when being handed the reigns. The Englishman is immensely talented and could be key in finding three points.