Premier League champions Manchester City will hope to build on their victory over Nottingham Forest when they face Crystal Palace on Saturday.
Prior to their victory over Forest, the Citizens had failed to win in seven games across all competitions, a run that included four league matches.
That had allowed leaders Liverpool to open up an 11-point lead over the reigning champions but Wednesday’s victory, coupled with the Reds’ 2-2 draw against Newcastle United, saw the gap cut to nine.
Palace have become something of a tricky opponent for City in recent years, but manager Pep Guardiola will expect to see his side emerge victorious and keep alive their hopes of winning a record-breaking fifth English top flight title.
Saturday’s match could also give City a chance to see one of their transfer targets in action, but it appears that they will not be signing the player in January.
According to Football Insider, Crystal Palace are unlikely to allow midfielder Adam Wharton – who is a target for Man City and Arsenal – to leave the club next month.
Wharton is currently injured but is unlikely to leave Palace in January
The 20-year-old is currently sidelined after undergoing groin surgery, but the report claims that the Eagles are hoping he can have a significant impact when he makes his return.
Despite high hopes before the season began, Oliver Glasner’s side find themselves embroiled in a relegation battle and are optimistic that Wharton’s return could help them move up the table.
Wharton joined Palace from Championship side Blackburn Rovers in January last year having played just 51 times for his boyhood club.
Since moving to Selhurst Park he has played 24 times for the London side, and his impressive performances have attracted interest from both City and Arsenal.
Despite this, it is claimed that Palace are intent on holding on to the player beyond the January transfer window.
Wharton’s current contract with the Eagles until the summer of 2029.