Manchester City v Aston Villa match preview

Following Sundays dreary 1-0 loss to West Ham Manchester City welcome Aston Villa to Eastlands. Lingering mid-table the Citizens need a major push to climb into the final Europa League spot but will not find the going easy against Martin O'Neill's side who are steadily climbing the table and appear ready to grab a Champions League spot.

With Mark Hughes job security a debate in the offing, the manager is dealing with a hoist of injury concerns. Craig Bellamy, who has been a stunning performer since coming over from the Hammers is lost due to a knee injury. Danny Sturridge and Robinho will join the Welsh striker in the stands along with a questionable Micah Richards. The manager is said to be considering Valeri Bojinov for full duties in the starting eleven and given City's recent history of jeopardizing players future with forcing them out early, it is quite possible. While I prefer not to throw a damper on the Bulgarian internationals return every player and agent who is approached by City this summer transfer season should understand this practice and make their decision with full knowledge. Six months from ruptured Achilles tendon is not nearly enough time and its ridiculous the Man City's supposed medical staff would give full clearance. Darius Vassell, Felipe Caicedo and Ched Evans are all available for striker duties.