Premier League preview: Manchester City v West Bromwich Albion

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini faces a selection headache ahead of his side’s clash with West Bromwich Albion on Wednesday.

With Mario Balotelli suspended thanks to his red card from Sunday’s 1-0 loss to Arsenal, Mancini will have to reform his attacking structure.

But with Yaya Toure and David Silva doubtful starters due to injury, it will not be easy for City’s boss.

Toure limped off against Arsenal with a knee injury and Silva missed out altogether, also with a knee problem.

For Mancini, the solution may be Carlos Tevez.

The Argentine has yet to start a game since his mid-season exile but with City trailing Manchester United by eight points in the race for the Premier League title with six games to go, it may be time for Mancini to roll the dice and put his faith in Tevez.

City have won just once in their past five Premier League games and desperately need to get back on track against West Brom.

Roy Hodgson’s side ended a four-game winless streak on Saturday, triumphing 3-0 over Blackburn.

That win included a welcome clean sheet as well, after Hodgson’s men conceded eight goals in their four games without victory.

Defence has been a problem for West Brom this season with just seven clean sheets managed.

That defensive record could allow City’s misfiring striker Edin Dzeko to break his scoring drought.

Dzeko has not scored in six Premier League matches and has just three goals in the league in 2012.

But the Bosnia and Herzegovina international will almost certainly play some role at home due to Balotelli’s absence.

West Brom head into Wednesday’s match 13th on the table and 11 points clear of the relegation zone.

With safety pretty much secured, Hodgson’s side could provide City with the easy win they so desperately need.