Manuel Akanji and Sergio Gomez to start - Man City predicted line-up for Southampton fixture

Manuel Akanji and Sergio Gomez could be rewarded for their impressive performances of late by starting Manchester City's Premier League fixture against Southampton on Saturday.

City are looking to continue their fine form since returning from the international break, after a 5-0 thrashing of FC Copenhagen in the Champions League followed a 6-3 schooling of cross-city rivals Manchester United in the derby last weekend.

All eyes will of course be on Erling Haaland, who has come back from the international break even more clinical in front of goal than he was before. The 22-year-old striker scored a hat-trick against United - becoming the first play ever to score hat-tricks in three consecutive Premier League home games - and was at the double against Copenhagen before being withdrawn at half-time.

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However, the more interesting aspect of Pep Guardiola's team selection will be in defence, where the groin injury sustained by Kyle Walker will force Guardiola to reshuffle the pack. Joao Cancelo will of course deputise at right-back, meaning Sergio Gomez could get the chance to start a Premier League game for the first time.

The young Spaniard impressed when he replaced Walker against United and when he played the full 90 minutes against Copenhagen. In both matches he showed his ability to tuck into midfield in the same way that Cancelo does, something that will be important against a Southampton side that is dangerous on the break and that City struggled to break down last season.

Akanji was rested on Wednesday night, the first time he hasn't started a game he's been available for since he arrived at City in August. The Swiss centre-back has