A look ahead at tomorrow's game from an opponents point of view
Ahead of Saturday's clash at The Etihad, Bluemoon caught up with Stoke fan Jase from Four Two Three One Stoke to get the lowdown on the opposition...
What are your expectations for this season?
I think the general feeling around the place is another top half finish, with a view to 8th place if all goes well this season. The first two games have brought some fans back down to earth with expectations, but overall I'd say top 10 again this coming season.
Are you happy with the manager?
Yes, definitely. He's been brilliant since coming in; in one season he's managed to transform our playing style to one that is far more pleasing on the eye to most. We're now a team that focus on counter attacks with pace rather than long ball, and the players he's signed (for very little) are helping to transform us.
Who are your key players?
I'd say our core spine of players would be Begovic, Shawcross and N'Zonzi. If any of them slip up, we'll be in trouble.
Were you happy with the business conducted during the transfer window?
So far so good this window, Hughes has added the striker that we desperately needed as well as offering competition at right back and adding creative flair. Moses on loan, Bojan for less than £1m and Diouf on a free have been the highlights of the window.
Are there any rising stars in the squad that we might not have heard of?
None that will be starting at the weekend! Ollie Shenton will be one for the future, the 16 year old made his debut off the bench in the League Cup last night. We've also got Dionatan Teixeira, a 22/23 year old centre half who may be PL ready later this season. He's an ex Man City youth, too.
Your Achilles heel?
Our inability to score, at the moment. 1 goal in 2 games so far, and even that was scrappy.
If you could have any City player in your team who would you choose?
Yaya Toure. Everyone loves a wrecking ball in midfield.
What is your perception of City as a club?
I don't mind them as much as other big clubs, put it that way. Although that FA Cup final will never be forgiven.
Likely starting XI for the game, and score prediction?
Begovic
Bardsley, Shawcross, Wilson, Pieters
N'Zonzi, Sidwell
Moses, Bojan, Arnautovic
Diouf
I think it'll end 2-0 to Man City.