(Raheem Sterling has been a hit at Manchester City, scoring six goals and making 3 assists in all competitions - image via Ian Walton/Getty Images)
“Sergio is fit – he’s ready to come back,” Pellegrini announced in his pre-match press conference.
“David continues with some small sprain in his ankle so it’s a risk for him to play.
"He [Sturridge] is as fit as he can be after a long break. Of course he is not at 100% and we have to see," the German told journalists.
La Marseillaise - the French national anthem - will be played before this weekend's matches to commemorate the 129 people who lost their lives in the Paris attacks. The infamous international break has long been the subject of castigation from football supporters who bemoan its ability to tear the hamstrings and twist the ankles of their club's best players; but on Friday 13th 2015, the superficial nature of football and minor injuries was laid bare.
Manuel Pellegrini will be delighted to welcome back Sergio Agüero for the tie against Liverpool, but had some bad news on the condition of David Silva.
“David continues with some small sprain in his ankle so it’s a risk for him to play.
Samir Nasri, Wilfried Bony and Vincent Kompany are also unavailable.
(Sergio Agüero could be thrown straight into the starting line up after returning from injury - image via Jan Kruger/Getty Images)
Former City striker Daniel Sturridge could return from a knee injury, but Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp indicated that the 26-year-old's inclusion will be based on a late decision.
James Milner will face his old teammates for the first time since departing Manchester for Liverpool in the summer despite missing international duty, while Dejan Lovren is expected to replace the injured Mamadou Sakho.
The £49m man Raheem Sterling will be the centre of attention in this one after turning his back on abuse from his former fans still blinded by their club's success in the 70s and 80s; but sitting at the top of the Premier League table and with Champions League qualification already secured, it's safe to say Raheem is better off in sky blue.
Possible line-ups
