Manchester City vs Crystal Palace preview: Manuel Pellegrini could rest stars test youngsters in Capital One Cup

A look ahead to the Capital One Cup fixture at the Etihad

Manchester City's record signings Raheem Sterling and Kevin De Bruyne (Getty Images)

It’s a big game for…

Patrick Roberts: The 18-year-old English playmaker was signed from Fulham for an eye-catching £11 million in the summer, but has played just 39 minutes in a Man City shirt to date. Considering Manuel Pellegrini spent £100 million on playmakers over the summer Roberts’ chances will be few and far between; he will need to impress in his first appearance at the Etihad.

Best stat…

33

Number of games since Crystal Palace were involved in a 0-0 draw, a run that stretches back to a goalless draw at Villa Park on January 1st – the day before Alan Pardew joined the club. 

Remember when…

Man City capitalised upon Steven Gerrard’s infamous slip against Chelsea by beating Crystal Palace 2-0 at Selhurst Park, moving within three points of Liverpool with three games left to play. Any City nerves were immediately settled when Edin Dzeko headed his team in front after just four minutes, with Yaya Toure adding a second before half-time.

Player to watch…

Kevin De Bruyne: The Belgian international has scored or assisted in seven of his last nine matches. Manuel Pellegrini has taken the Capital One Cup very seriously again this season, so De Bruyne should feature.

Past three meetings…

Crystal Palace 0 Manchester City 1 (Iheanacho)
Premier League, September 2015

Crystal Palace 2 (Murray, Puncheon) Manchester City 1 (Toure)
Premier League, April 2015

Manchester City 3 (Silva 2, Toure) Crystal Palace 0
Premier League, December 2014

Form guide…

Manchester City: LWWWWD

Crystal Palace: LWWWLL

Vital information…

Kick-off time: Wednesday 28 October, 7.45pm

TV: Highlights on Channel 5, 11pm, 28 October