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Manchester City and Stoke meet in the Premier League this evening, just 72 hours after doing battle in the FA Cup final.
Roberto Mancini’s men came out on top at Wembley, securing the famous trophy thanks to a second-half strike from Yaya Toure. It was a fantastic day for the club and one which will live long in the memory.
Coming a few days after a place in the Champions League was assured, the FA Cup success has been hailed as the platform for Manchester City to build on as they look to become a major force in European football.
The Wembley final was significant for Stoke too though. They may well have been beaten by the better side on the day, but just to reach the final was a fantastic achievement and one which signalled how far they have come under Tony Pulis.
It is back to league matters for both teams this evening though and putting the irony of them playing each other again so soon to one side, they each still have something to play for.
Looking at Manchester City first, they have the chance to leapfrog Arsenal into 3rd position with three points tonight. This is hugely significant as it would mean not having to go through the qualifying stages of the Champions League at the start of next season.
It would also signal the progress made by Mancini’s men. To finish above Arsenal – who were title contenders not so long ago – would be a good achievement that sets the club up nicely for a title challenge of their own next season.
As for Stoke, they will be determined to secure a top-half finish. It would be a shame if they dropped out of the top ten in the last two games and act as an unfair reflection on their campaign.
If they can go to Eastlands and pick up three points, it would move them up to 8th in the table and ensure them a top ten finish in the process. This would be a nice way to go into the final game of the season at home to Wigan.
With regards to the team news for this one, Manchester City are likely to call upon England duo Adam Johnson and James Milner after they missed out on a starting berth in the FA Cup final.
The visitors are set to do without the services of Matthew Ethertington who has a hamstring injury, while Jermaine Pennant is also doubtful with an ankle injury.
Overall, this game isn’t anywhere near as important as Sunday’s FA Cup final, but three points would be beneficial to both teams.
With the pressure off, it could be an open game too with plenty of attacking football on show.
