Lee Carsley’s side are unbeaten so far and sit second in the U18 Premier League.
Having scored 18 goals in six matches, the Blues are in emphatic form as they prepare for this weekend’s clash with mid-table Derby County.
Where will Saturday’s noon kick-off be decided on the pitch? Visit the ticket office for information on how you can support City’s future...
Luke Bolton v Fuseine Rashid
Bolton spoke this week of how he and his teammates are out to to entertain the fans this week - something he, Jadon Sancho and Joe Hardy have done plenty of so far this season.
The right winger has put in plenty of all action displays already this season and he will have to be at his bustling best again on Saturday if he is to find a way around Derby captain Fuseine Rashid.
Although the Rams have struggled to keep the door bolted so far, conceding 14 goals in six matches, Rashid is a leader capable of organising his defence excellently while shackling his direct opponent too.
Bolton’s ability to drive past players before playing a lethal cross has been an indispensable asset to City so far and he will need to be accurate if he is to beat Rashid and pick out either Lorenzo Gonzalez or Joe Hardy, whoever Carsley picks in the central role.
Aro Muric v Cameron Cresswell
City’s physically imposing Swiss goalkeeper is more than just a shot-stopper, prepared to travel out of his box if he sees it as the best way to avert the danger. It’s worked excellently so far; allowing City’s defence to push forward and put pressure on the opposition.
If called upon though the 17-year-old can get down in lightning quick time to turn away any daisycutters fired at his goal.
It’s likely he’ll have a Cameron Cresswell effort to turn away at some point during Saturday’s clash - the striker has featured for England’s youth teams and been the big threat for the Rams so far this season with six goals in the U18 Premier League.
Visit mancity.com/tickets to be at the Academy Stadium for the 12pm kick-off before Pep Guardiola‘s first team face Everton at the Etihad Stadium.
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