In-form sides meet as Bolton visit Manchester City

Fresh from their convincing 3-0 Europa League victory in midweek, Manchester City face sixth place neighbours Bolton Wanderers, in what could prove to be a classic match.

The two sides were undefeated in the league throughout November; Bolton picking up 11 points from a possible 15, with City reaching a total of nine. With a packed winter period of matches now upon them, both managers will be hoping their men can replicate recent performances and remain in the fight for a top-four finish.

Man City will approach the match amidst rumours that Blues manager Roberto Mancini is planning to offload half a dozen players in January: Shay Given, Wayne Bridge, Joleon Lescott, Shaun Wright-Phillips, Roque Santa Cruz and Emmanuel Adebayor are thought to have been told they are free to talk to other clubs, all of whom were purchased by City under previous manager Mark Hughes.

With expectations high, Mancini is looking to strengthen the squad with his own transfers in time for their Premier League title run-in. One of his own signings, midfielder Yaya Toure is expected to return to the squad after missing the last two matches.

After two goals in midweek Mario Balotelli could start up front alongside Carlos Tevez. For the Italian man to bag another brace in a 2-0 home win, odds of 10/1 are available.

A potential victory for the home side could depend on the manager’s faith in Adam Johnson. The former Middlesbrough winger hasn’t started as many games as perhaps expected, yet after a fantastic solo goal against Salzburg in midweek followed by praise from his manager that the England man could become one of the best players in the world, a place in the starting line-up may be justified.

Barlcays Manager of the Month Owen Coyle will be monitoring the fitness of American Stuart Holden who is suffering from a thigh injury. His replacement for last weekend’s draw with Blackpool was Mark Davies, who scored a late equaliser. The young English midfielder is 33/1 to score the last goal of the game again; should it prove to be the winner it would push the Trotters above City in the Premier League table.

Betting Highlight:

Bolton are an attractive 11/2 to win their second away match in a row.

09/10 Results:

Bolton 3-3 Man City

Man City 2-0 Bolton