The international break probably came at the right time for Manchester City. They were not firing on all cylinders in the disappointing loss to Wolves, and they were missing some key players.

In defence, John Stones’s return to fitness will probably see Fernandinho drop out for the game against Crystal Palace tomorrow evening. Although Joao Cancelo didn’t do a lot wrong last time out, a natural left-footer at left-back would offer more balance so Oleksandr Zinchencko could come back into the side.

In midfield, Kevin De Bruyne should be ready to start after recovering from a groin injury, so he is likely to replace Ilay Gundogan in the middle of the park. Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden are both in contention to start if manager Pep Guardiola opts against starting David Silva.

However, the Spaniard had a break during the international fixtures and will be the freshest of the trio so he could start once again at Selhurst Park.

With Riyad Mahrez in excellent form, it would be harsh if he were to be dropped, so the Algerian international could line up alongside Sergio Aguero and Raheem Sterling in the front three.

Manchester City’s Predicted XI To Face Crystal Palace:

Ederson, Walker, Stones, Otamendi, Zinchenko, De Bruyne, Rodri, David Silva, Mahrez, Aguero, Sterling