Watford predicted lineup vs Man City - Premier League
By Max Parsons
Watford face another daunting task on Saturday evening as they take on reigning champions Manchester City in the Premier League.
Claudio Ranieri's side face City just days after narrowly losing 2-1 to leaders Chelsea. The Hornets have lost five of the seven games that Ranieri has overseen so far, but there have been encouraging moments - such as 5-2 and 4-1 victories over Everton and Manchester United respectively.
They'll be aiming to end a run of two consecutive defeats, however, against a Manchester City side that has rampaged to a run of six straight wins in all competitions. Good luck.
Here's who Ranieri could field in this one.
Watford predicted lineup vs Man City - Premier League
1. Goalkeeper & Defenders
Daniel Bachmann (GK) - With Ben Foster out of contention, Austrian goalkeeper Bachmann looks set for a seventh Premier League start of the campaign.
Kiko Femenia (RB) - Didn't fare too badly against Chelsea in midweek, and will hope for a similar individual performance against an equally daunting prospect on Saturday.
Craig Cathcart (CB) - Missed just two league outings so far this term and should be in line for an eighth consecutive start this weekend.
William Troost-Ekong (CB) - With Nicolas N'Koulou out of action, the Nigerian international will likely get the nod once more.
Danny Rose (LB) - Adam Masina was forced off early against Chelsea, allowing Rose to fill in and do a good job in his place. Deserves a start this time around.
2. Midfielders
Imran Louza (DM) - Played well in midweek and should have done enough to keep his place in the side.
Moussa Sissoko (CM) - Was arguably the standout in a Watford shirt against Chelsea and will have to be on top form to contain City's midfield.
Tom Cleverley (CM) - Juraj Kucka may come knocking for a return to the starting XI, although Cleverley's industry and dogged determination could see him start against Pep Guardiola's side.
3. Forwards
Emmanuel Dennis (RW) - Turning out to be a phenomenal addition to the Premier League. A well-taken goal against Chelsea put him on six to go with five assists already this campaign. Top player.
Josh King (ST) - With five goals in his last six league appearances - even if three did come in one game - he's regularly looking a threat for Watford.
Joao Pedro (LW) - With Ismaila Sarr absent, Joao Pedro will likely get another opportunity in Ranieri's front line.