With City kicking off in the afternoon, five hours before Manchester United face Birmingham, Roberto Mancini�s side could be top for a spell. But they have managed just nine goals in none home Premier League games.

Kolo Toure is available to return from a one-match ban and though Joleon Lescott performed creditably in Toure's absence at Newcastle it would be a huge surprise if the Ivorian was not handed an instant recall.

Villa have lost five of their last six Premier League games and striker Emile Heskey is a major doubt after twisting an ankle in a collision with Tottenham goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes in the 2-1 defeat at Villa Park. Ashley Young is likely to remain sidelined with a knee injury, similarly Luke Young who has a groin problem.

Last season: Villa 1 City 1, City 3 Villa 1. Stat of the game: Villa have lost on their last three visits to City. Betting tip: City on a roll; try a 3-1 home win at 12-1. Manchester City (probable, 4-2-3-1): Hart; Zabaleta, K Toure, Kompany, Kolarov; De Jong, Barry; Milner, Y Toure, Silva; Tevez. Aston Villa (probable, 4-4-1-1): Friedel; Lichaj, Cuellar, Collins, Warnock; Reo-Coker, Bannan, Hogg, Downing; Albrighton; Agbonlahor. Referee: Michael Oliver. Matches: 7. R2 Y26.