Manchester City had a slightly wobblier start to the season than they would've liked, though they head into the 17th game of the Premier League campaign in their best form yet. Manuel Pellegrini's side have strung together seven victories in all competitions and are now just three points adrift of league leaders Chelsea. It looks like we may yet get a title race after all.
They should have no problems recording an eighth consecutive victory at home to struggling Crystal Palace in Saturday's early kickoff. Neil Warnock's side have predictably struggled so far, and head into the weekend just a point clear of the relegation zone. For the Eagles, the only reason for optimism is that there are a handful of teams who continue to look even worse.
Key player - Julián Speroni (Crystal Palace)
In Crystal Palace's dramatic run to Premier League survival last season, veteran Argentine goalkeeper Julián Speroni was one of the top performers. This year, the 35-year-old has found things a little tougher, but he's going to have to be on top form if Palace want to stand any chance of picking up a point or three. City are no doubt going to dominate the game, bombarding Speroni with shots in the process.
Key matchup - Jason Puncheon vs. Gaël Clichy
There's only one way for Palace to try and win this match, and that is on the counter-attack. To break efficiently, you need pace, power and skill, and, when at his best, Jason Puncheon has it all. In this match he'll be up against perhaps the weakest of all of City's defenders in left-back Gaël Clichy. and it is a battle that could prove to be decisive.
Manchester City injuries and suspensions
Out: Sergio Agüero (knee), Edin Džeko (calf), Vincent Kompany (hamstring). In doubt: Stevan Jovetić (hamstring).
Crystal Palace injuries and suspensions
Out: Adrian Mariappa (knee). In doubt: Wilfried Zaha (knock), Marouane Chamakh (hamstring).
City's major selection concerns come in attack, with star man Sergio Agüero and big man Edin Džeko are both sidelined, potentially alongside the eternally injured man Stevan Jovetić. Captain Vincent Kompany is also out. Palace's only definite absentee is defender Adrian Mariappa, though attackers Wilfried Zaha and Marouane Chamakh are both doubtful.
Match Date/Time: Saturday, 12:45 p.m. local, 7:45 a.m. ET
Venue: Etihad Stadium, Manchester, England
TV: NBCSN, Mun2 (U.S.), TSN, RDS (Canada), BT Sport 1 (U.K.)
Online: NBC Sports Live Extra (U.S. - English), Deportes Telemundo En Vivo Extra (U.S. - Spanish), BT Sport 1 (U.K.)