Manchester City predicted to thump Brentford as Premier League title race resumes

Manchester City return to Premier League action on Wednesday night when they face Brentford at the Etihad Stadium.

Pep Guardiola's men come into the game following a comprehensive 4-1 victory over Fulham in the FA Cup which saw them progress to the Fifth Round.

Thomas Frank's team were also involved in the FA Cup on Saturday but were humbled by Everton in Frank Lampard's first game in charge.

Their 4-1 defeat will have done little for their confidence heading into another away trip in the north west.

Below is how Mark Lawrenson and Paul Merson see this match playing out.

"Brentford have lost their mojo, suffering five defeats in a row in all competitions and conceding an average of more than three goals a game in that time," he told BBC Sport.

"That's not the kind of form you want to be in heading to Etihad Stadium, especially with Manchester City playing so well.

"The Bees gave City a good game on their own patch over Christmas and only lost 1-0. This one probably won't be as close."

Prediction: Man City 4-1 Brentford

"What scoreline do you want?" Merson joked to Sportskeeda.

"We can make this up as we go along now. I’ll go with 5-0.

"Brentford won’t see anything of value in this game, and they need to start boxing clever.

"They could run around and work their socks off, only to lose comprehensively.

"If I were Brentford, I’d write this game off. They’re reeling off defeat after defeat at the moment, and could suffer five Premier League defeats on the trot if they lose this week.

"Brentford need to pick their battles. They’re playing Crystal Palace this weekend, and that’s a must-win game for them.

"Manchester City are clearly the better team and should be able to win this game comfortably."

Prediction: Man City