Round 1 Of 3 Versus City

If Carroll starts he'll be looking for those delicious crosses from Gerrard...
Liverpool travel to the City of Manchester Stadium on Tuesday evening to face Mancini's side for the first of three times this month. The Reds will be looking to take advantage of City after they lost to Sunderland on Sunday. Three points for Liverpool would see them move into 5th place.

Both sides are in pretty good shape and have little if no injuries, although Balotelli could be a doubt after sitting out the last match with an ankle problem. For Liverpool there are no real worries and it is hoped after two appearances from the bench that Steven Gerrard may start.

Craig Bellamy is a key talking point for Tuesday's clash. His performance against Newcastle was superb and with him falling out of Mancini's favour whilst he was at Man City, I'm sure he would relish the chance to put a goal or two past Joe Hart.

The last time Liverpool beat Manchester City away from home was in 2008. The Reds have a decent home record against them but there is also a large collection of draws. We shouldn't forget though that the Reds put 3 goals past Manchester City in 2011, so large victories are still possible.

Stat Sandwich

  • Liverpool have taken 16 points from their first 9 away games this season.
  • Manchester City have not lost in the league at home this season.
  • Liverpool have only lost once in their last 14 league games.

Looking at the stats it's clear to see that this game should be full of surprises, one way or another somethings got to give. Manchester City i think at the moment have hit a bit of a wobble. Nothing major, but nonetheless it is an ideal time for Liverpool to play them.

If Steven Gerrard starts then already the Reds have a massive trick up their sleeve. His goal against Newcastle proved he hasn't lost his touch and Gerrard always lifts the team. He grabs the side by the scruff of their necks and makes them fight for glory.

Hopefully it will be a great game to watch and if i get chance I'm gonna have a cheeky punt on Craig Bellamy for first goalscorer!

Enjoy the match folks.