Sergio Aguero would be licking his chops following the dismal performance of Crystal Palace. The Eagles have failed to pick a single point from the first five matches and have a number of tough fixtures ahead.
Crystal Palace became the first side to lose their first five matches without scoring once in those matches. To make the matter even worst they are scheduled to face Manchester City who are looking fearsome this season. Pep Guardiola’s side have already scored a flurry of goals and we could expect a one-sided affair when they take on the Eagles.
Roy Hodgson would have wanted more simple fixtures to ease out the proceedings but he has to be a bit tricky with his game plan to see out this match. City thrashed Watford 6-0 in the last match but the Eagles are much more disciplined defensively so it would be an interesting contest.
Predicted 4-4-1-1 Crystal Palace Starting Lineup Against Manchester City
Defence
Hodgson is likely to go in this match with the experienced Wayne Hennessey. The Wales international has a point to prove and needs to perform to keep his place intact.
The manager would be delighted to have Mamadou Sakho back in the fold. The French international had been carrying an injury and played his first match in the Carabao Cup win over Huddersfield Town. Although he had to be substituted, he now might get his first Premier League start this season.
James Tomkins will be marshalling the defence alongside him. Joel Ward will hold his position on the right side while Jeffrey Schulpp will try to make a difference from the opposite side.
Midfield
Luka Milivojevic didn’t get to start the last match but considering the importance of ths match, he should get a chance. Hodgson will be needing that extra man in midfield to cover the gaps and the 26-year-old is the ideal candidate.
Yohan Cabaye will have the creative responsibility to feed the Palace attackers with delicious balls.
Attack
The absence of Wilfried Zaha has been a backlog for the Eagles. Bakary Sako’s form has been pretty encouraging and he should start on the left flank.
Andros Townsend had some good moments against Southampton and will try to create havoc with his twist and turns. Ruben Loftus-Cheek’s performance in the last match probably was the best as the midfielder tried everything to give his side that necessary edge.
Christian Benteke will lead the line. Here is how they might line up:
