Manchester City begin the defence of their FA Cup crown with a third-round fixture against Port Vale on Saturday evening.

City's struggles in the Premier League this season may lead to Pep Guardiola placing extra priority on winning this competition for a second year in succession.

However, ahead of the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final with Manchester United, the Spaniard will make alterations for the game against opposition from League Two.

Here, Sports Mole predicts how City may line up for the clash at the Etihad Stadium.

Out: Leroy Sane (knee), Aymeric Laporte (knee)
Doubtful: John Stones (thigh), Ederson (illness), Nicolas Otamendi (undisclosed)

> Click here for Man City's latest injury and suspension news ahead of this match

Having remained as an used substitute against Everton on New Year's Day, Sergio Aguero is expected to start on Saturday, potentially alongside Raheem Sterling who only came on as a late replacement.

Kyle Walker was also rested versus the Toffees, and that may lead to the Englishman being the experienced head in a backline which includes Eric Garcia, Taylor Harwood-Bellis and Angelino.

While John Stones is nearing a return from a thigh injury, the centre-back may only be selected on the bench should he be deemed fit enough for selection.

The midfield could also have a youthful look with Tommy Doyle and Adrian Bernabe in contention for rare appearances in the centre of the pitch.

With Phil Foden having come through 83 minutes on New Year's Day, his spot in the team is likely to go to David Silva.

The versatile Oleksandr Zinchenko could be used on the left wing if Guardiola opts to rest the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Riyad Mahrez.