Manchester City have lost an unprecedented four games in a row, something Pep Guardiola had never experienced in his managerial career before, and he will be eager to see his side get back to winning ways when Tottenham visit.
A 2-1 defeat to Spurs in the EFL Cup in October started this losing streak for the Citizens and the blue side of Manchester will be out for revenge.
Tottenham are also experiencing their own problems heading into the contest, as they sit 10th in the table after a 2-1 defeat to Ipswich before the international break.
- TOTTENHAM TO SCORE FIRST
- BRENNAN JOHNSON TO SCORE AT ANY TIME
- JAMES MADDISON TO BE SHOWN A CARD
Bet On The Premier League
Spurs Could Catch Hosts Cold
Tottenham have struggled on the road this season, winning just one of their five away games in the league, but they will take some hope into their Etihad visit given their good recent record against City.
Spurs were 2-1 winners when these two teams met just last month in the EFL Cup, netting just five minutes into that game before doubling the lead in the 25th minute.
Ange Postecoglou’s side have a habit of starting quickly against the Citizens, with Tottenham scoring first in six of the last eight meetings, and they could repeat the trick against a City side that have been caught cold plenty this term.
Guardiola’s troops have conceded first in five of their 11 league games, a tally that is uncharacteristically high for an outfit of their standards, and the absence of Rodri appears to be having a bigger effect than many expected.
While City will be buoyed by the news Pep Guardiola has agreed a one-year contract extension, they could be in for a difficult time against Spurs and the visitors are a good shout to grab the opener.
TOTTENHAM TO SCORE FIRST
Johnson Danger For Visitors
Wales international Brennan Johnson has overcome a slow start to the season that brought about plenty of criticism to now be one of Tottenham’s most reliable sources of goals.
The former Nottingham Forest man has seven goals in all competitions and could be overpriced to secure another in this game.
City have been exposed far too many times at the back, with the ball in behind causing them significant problems, and Spurs have the pace and quality to set up Johnson, who has enjoyed a goal from close-range this term.
BRENNAN JOHNSON TO SCORE AT ANY TIME
Maddison May Fall Foul Of Referee
Tottenham are short in midfield following the suspension of Rodrigo Bentancur and James Maddison, more known for his attacking qualities, may be forced to sit deeper and play a more defensive role.
That could increase the chances of the former Leicester man going in the book, something he has become accustomed to this season with three cards picked up in all competitions.
Facing City’s quick-footed, technical players, Maddison may find himself drawn into making a rash challenge and it would be no surprise to see him fall foul of the referee again.
JAMES MADDISON TO BE SHOWN A CARD
