Manchester City vs Newcastle preview

Both Manchester City and Newcastle United are among the top 5 clubs as the League enters into its eighth matchday. City are third in the table with Newcastle close on their heels at five.

In midweek, forgotten Greek striker Georgios Samaras marked his first appearance of the season with a finely taken goal as City beat Norwich by a solitary goal to progress in the League Cup. But with Mpenza leading the line on his own, Samaras would most likely find a place on the bench. Summer signing Rolando Bianchi has a groin strain and will miss the game. Hamann, Johnson, Petrov, Richards, Corluka will all be restored in the first team lineup after missing out in midweek. Valeri Bojinov is out till December.

Like a host of established teams, Newcastle are out of the League Cup after being beaten by an outstanding Arsenal side. Newcastle are a bit thin up front as they lack choices in attack. Michael Owen, who was a summer target for Manchester City, is injured for three weeks. Shola Ameobi also has a groin problem. Martins and Viduka will play upfront. City boy Joey Barton is not fit enough to play against his former club while Butt and Geremi are sure to feature in midfield. Duff, Ramage, Carr, Babayaro are all injured.

My pick: My pick is no pick. Its a really toughie. I go for a safe 1-1 draw. City haven’t scored much at home. All games have ended in 1-0 wins. A 1-1 this time around.