The pressure is on Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini to lead his team to three points against Fulham this weekend as arch rivals Manchester United sit level on points at the top of the table.

Following City's 1-0 defeat to Everton at Goodison Park on Tuesday, Mancini will be encouraged by a home Premier League tie.

Skipper Vincent Kompany is expected to keep his place in defence following his return to the starting XI this week after a four-match ban, while Gareth Barry should secure the middle of the park.

With Mario Balotelli serving a suspension, Edin Dzeko is expected to keep his spot up front alongside Sergio Aguero on Saturday.

Fulham manager Martin Jol confirmed today that midfielder Steve Sidwell will miss six weeks of action after picking up a hernia injury during the Cottagers' 1-1 draw with West Bromwich Albion last night.

Kerim Frei could take his place in the Ducthman's starting lineup as the London side search for their first win following the departure of striker Bobby Zamora.

Current form:

Manchester City: LLWWDL
Fulham: WWLWLD

Possible lineups:

Manchester City: Hart; Richards, Kompany, Lescott, Clichy; Barry, Milner, Silva, Nasri, Dzeko; Aguero

Fulham: Stockdale; Kelly, Hangeland, Senderos, Riise; Murphy, Frei, Davies, Duff; Dempsey, Ruiz

Sports Mole says: 2-0