April 11 2019

Scott Dann

Hunter Young compares the key clashes as Crystal Palace begin their tough run-in with a home match against Manchester City.

One of the shock results of the season was the Eagles' victory over Manchester City at the Etihad in December. That loss marked a low point for the Citizens' from which they have since bounced back and sit two points behind Liverpool for the league title. Palace's win over Newcastle virtually wrapped up safety and leaves them 11 points above the drop. If you fancy backing Palace to do the double over City, then check out this selection of the best betting mobile apps for UK punters in April 2019.

Sergio Aguero v Scott Dann

The title race is not the only one in full swing with Sergio Aguero currently leading the charge in the challenge for the Golden Boot. The Argentine has scored 19 goals in the Premier League this term but will have to continue his good form if he is to hold off challenges from the likes of Mohammad Salah and Harry Kane, among others.

The sight of James Tomkins limping off the pitch last week is far from an ideal one and he will be joining Mamadou Sakho on the sidelines for the foreseeable future. Unless Roy Hodgson decides to give Sam Woods a chance, Scott Dann will replace Tomkins in the starting 11. The experienced defender and former captain will be determined to seize this opportunity, but there are fewer tougher challenges than Aguero.

Embed from Getty Images

Fernandinho v Luka Milivojevic

Fernandinho missed the December clash between these two teams and his presence on the field was greatly missed. The Brazilian shields the defence and controls the midfield like few in the world. The key to breaking down the resolute Man City back line is getting past Fernandinho, a task that is much easier said than done.

Luka Milivojevic is in position to match a Premier League record for penalties scored in a season, should he score one more this campaign. The Serb has scored 10 of his 11 goals from the spot and is one of the best in the world when the pressure is on. The defensive midfielder will have to be on his game from more than the spot if he wants to limit Fernandinho’s influence on the match.

Embed from Getty Images

Raheem Sterling v Aaron Wan-Bissaka

Aguero is not the only member of City's squad racking up the goals this season. Speedy English winger Raheem Sterling has scored 15 goals. Either Sterling or Sane will likely start the game on the left and either will provide a tough task for Palace starlet Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

Wan-Bissaka racked up yet another player of the month award for March, his fourth of the season. The rising star has been linked with moves to many of England’s big clubs, with Manchester City being chief among potential suitors. Putting an in impressive performance against Sterling could entice Pep Guardiola into making a summer move for the outstanding young defender.

Embed from Getty Images

Email Hunter with your feedback to hjyoung44@outlook.com