Team news: City make three changes for Spurs trip

Starting XI:

Formation:

City look like they are slightly curbing their attacking instincts with three changes made from the side that drew 3-3 in midweek with Celtic.

John Stones, Fernando and Jesus Navas return with Gael Clichy, Nolito making way.

Fernando’s recall is interesting and expect him to play in front of the back four with Fernandinho and David Silva slightly more advanced. 

Aleksandar Kolarov resumes his normal left-back berth with Navas and Raheem Sterling supporting Sergio Aguero.

City’s toughest test?

Read any of the weekend press and pundit previews of today’s game and you won’t find many tipping City to win.

The collective media opinion seems to sway towards Spurs taking all three points with Mauricio Pochettino figuring out a way to unpick the Blues tactically.

But Pep Guardiola will be ready and it will be fascinating to see how the Blues approach this top-of-the-table clash.

High press threat

Spurs will look to unsettle City and Claudio Bravo can expect to be closed down at every opportunity and the Chilean will need to be at his best with the ball at his feet.

The hosts will look to give no time to any of the City defenders and playing from the back will carry additional risks against a well-drilled Tottenham team.

One option will be to go over the press by playing the ball long to either flank - but no doubt the Blues will mix it up.

Spurs will probably look to attack the flanks and get around and behind the City back four as Celtic did - or will Pep have one or two tactical surprises up his sleeve?

Tottenham XI

Lloris (C); Walker, Alderweireld, Vertonghen, Rose; Wanyama, Dele; Sissoko, Eriksen, Lamela; Son.