City come to St Mary’s knowing that they need to get a run of wins going if they are to have any chance of catching their local rivals Utd.
Saints on the other hand need the points to ensure staying ahead of the relegation pack hunting them down.
There will be huge pressure on City with them needing max points as often as they can win them.
Roberto Martinez is still not giving in though saying, “This championship is not over, absolutely not,” says the City boss. “There is still time for a team to make a mistake.
‘We probably now need to win all of our 13 games, but if not 11 or 12.’
Jose Fonte and Guly do Prado are still on the sick list. Luke Shaw, Nathaniel Clyne and Gaston Ramirez may be available after a late fitness test.
We still await news of those playing internationals.
Adam should be nearing full fitness now and could be our biggest threat to City.
The Toure brothers will be welcomed back and they hope captain Vincent Kompany will be back as well.
Micah Richards is still out of contention.
This player is the heartbeat of City and his power packed displays often drive his team mates forward to victory.
Saints have not beaten City in the last six meetings. The last meeting at St Mary`s ending in a goalless draw during the 2004-05 campaign.
Martin Atkinson will referee the game.
Assisted by Mr S Burt and Mr P Kirkup.
Lee Mason is the fourth official.
I fear a reversal though praying for a different result and go 1 -3.
Sun 24th Feb 2013
Man City v Chelsea 13:30
Newcastle v Southampton 13:30