Norwich predicted lineup vs Manchester City - Premier League
By Max Parsons
Norwich face a near impossible task to keep a brilliant run of form going on Saturday evening, as they host Manchester City in the Premier League.
Dean Smith's men have enjoyed a fantastic period in the last few weeks, currently boasting a run of four matches across all competitions without defeat. A 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace last time out brought an end to a three-match winning streak, although those victories against Everton, Watford and Wolves have breathed a new-found energy and optimism into Carrow Road.
They'll need all the luck in the world to extend their unbeaten streak, however, facing Premier League leaders Manchester City, who have won 13 of their last 14 league fixtures. Here's how Smith could set out his side.
Norwich predicted lineup vs Manchester City
1. Goalkeeper & defenders
Angus Gunn (GK) - Recent showings may just have lifted him in the pecking order; in any case, with Tim Krul still absent through injury, he'll start against his old club here.
Max Aarons (RB) - His one moment of clumsiness thankfully didn't overshadow what was an excellent defensive performance last time out - but he'll need to give even more to keep City quiet.
Grant Hanley (CB) - Has been a solid performer in the hosts' recent run of form and should skipper the side for the fifth game running.
Ben Gibson (CB) - A vocal presence for the Canaries, Gibson has started 16 of Norwich's previous 18 league outings.
Brandon Williams (LB) - Watching the aggressive Manchester United loanee against City's tricky forward players should be fun.
2. Midfielders
Przemyslaw Placheta (RM) - Not the most noticeable, in truth, but Smith seems a fan.
Pierre Lees-Melou (CM) - A tidy player at the heart of the side, Lees-Melou will need to be on top of his game to avoid being totally dominated in Saturday's midfield battle.
Billy Gilmour (CM) - Kenny McLean, after his sublime defensive shift in the first half, looked rather leggy in the latter stages against Palace, so Gilmour could return.
Milot Rashica (LM) - In excellent form at the moment and, after running Palace ragged in the first half of their 1-1 draw in midweek, should definitely start once more.
3. Forwards
Adam Idah (ST) - Unselfishly excellent last time out; it should be interesting to see how City's esteemed defence handle what is a blossoming strike partnership for Smith's side.
Teemu Pukki (ST) - Fresh from scoring this season's quickest Premier League goal so far, although will need to be much more clinical if Norwich are to take anything away from this tie.