Manchester City are hoping to have full-back Pablo Zabaleta fit for the crunch tie against Liverpool on Boxing Day even though it was initially suggested the Argentine would miss the entire festive period.
The 28-year-old has been in fine form this season, having managed 5 assists in 15 Premier League matches, but he unfortunately picked up a hamstring injury in the Capital One Cup match against Leicester.
And with his back-up Micah Richards also sidelined, Gael Clichy played at right-back against Fulham, but it is fair to say he did not impress at Craven Cottage.
As a result, the medical team is working hard on getting Zabaleta ready for the match against title rivals Liverpool, where the Citizens are 4/5 to emerge victorious.
Having won all eight Premiership fixtures at the Etihad, Manchester City look a good bet to further improve their title chances, even if star striker Sergio Aguero continues to miss out.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are no less than 7/2 to claim maximum points, with red-hot Luis Suarez 20/21 to score anytime.
The Reds are still without Steven Gerrard, Daniel Sturridge, Jose Enrique and Sebastian Coates, whereas Jon Flanagan faces a fitness test.
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