Manchester City v Sunderland match preview

Mark Hughes' side look to regain their winning form Sunday afternoon as Sunderland visit Eastlands. Without question the Citizens focus is now squarely on the UEFA Cup where they have advanced to the final eight. Domestically the situation is the complete opposite as they are mired in mid-table and chances of earning a spot in European competition is unlikely. That said, what success they have enjoyed in the Premier League this campaign has come before their home supporters, which bodes well for this match.

For Sunday's match Mark Hughes is likely without Wayne Bridge, Stephen Ireland, Vincent Kompany and Craig Bellamy, who will all undergo late fitness tests. The visiting Black Cats are suffering through a difficult spell of recent, with only a single point from their previous four matches. Whilst the threat of relegation seemed unlikely for Ricky Sbragia's side, they rest only three points above Newcastle and will be looking for an all important victory. They will be without the services of Tal Ben Haim, on-loan from City, Kieran Richardson who is in the sin-bin as well as Anton Ferdinand and Nyron Nosworthy who are injured.