Everton vs Manchester City preview: Why it wouldn't be a surprise if this match ended 2-0

A look ahead to the Capital One Cup, semi-final first leg at Goodison Park

It’s a big game for…

Aleksandar Kolarov: The Serbian full back loves to get forward and support the City attacks but he will have his work cut out on Wednesday, in dealing with both Gerard Deulofeu and Seamus Coleman. He will need support from his midfield – in particular Raheem Sterling.

Weird/best stat…

2 – There have only been two meetings between the sides in the history of the League Cup, both of which finished 2-0. Man City won the first clash in 1969 and Everton won the last encounter in 1988.

Remember when…

An Edin Dzeko double and Sergio Aguero goal cancelled out goals from Ross Barkley and Romelu Lukaku in a Goodison Park thriller in May 2014?

Player to watch…

Sergio Aguero: The Argentinian forward scored a vital headed winner against Watford last Saturday, and looks to be getting back to his best after an injury-hit season. His pace and eye for goal will be a big test for John Stones and Ramiro Funes Mori.

Past three-meetings…

Man City 2 (Kolarov, Nasri) Everton 0 Premier League, August 2015

Everton 1 (Naismith) Man City 1 (Fernandinho), Premier League, January 2015

Man City 1 (Toure pen) Everton 0, Premier League, December 2014

Form guide (all competitions)…

Everton: D L W L D

Man City: W L W D W

Vital information…

KICK-OFF TIME: 8.00pm, Wednesday 6th January

TV: Live Sky Sports 1, 7.30pm