City head in to 2015 knowing they have to be more ruthless after dropping points in our last game against Burnley. With Chelsea already only managing a score draw at Southampton City could of closed the gap on leaders but let a 2 goal lead slip in Sunday's game at Eastlands. Sunderland on the other hand are the league's draw specialist. Out of nineteen games this season, the Black Cats have ended up with eleven draws and only lost twive in the last 10 games.

Team News

City are set to again be without both Edin Dzeko (calf) and Sergio Aguero (knee), although Jovetic (hamstring) could start after returning from the substitute’s bench in Sunday’s draw with the Clarets.

Sunderland's key man Sebastien Larsson facing a late fitness test after an ankle injury. Liam Bridcutt is out through concussion whilst Anthony Reveillere is out with a calf muscle strain. Patrick van Aanholt is also out with a dislocated shoulder.

Stats

Manchester City have won eight and lost none of their 10 previous Premier League home games against the Black Cats.

Sunderland have never kept an away clean sheet against Manchester City in the Premier League era (conceding 28).

James Milner has scored more goals against Sunderland (5) than he has versus any other Premier League opponent.

Manchester City scored four goals from just four shots on target when they beat Sunderland 4-1 at the Stadium of Light back in early December.

Manchester City have won six and lost just one of their last nine Premier League games on New Year’s Day. The one defeat was a 0-1 loss to Sunderland in 2012.

Photo: Action Images

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