Preview: Everton vs Man City

Everton have a trio of players off on international duty, but the Brazilian international Elano could make a timely return in this top-six clash with two of the Premiership's most improving sides going head to head at Goodison Park.

Suspensions and Injuries

Everton will be without Joseph Yobo, Ayegbeni Yakubu and Steven Pienaar - all away on African Nations Cup duty.

Manchester City are hoping to welcome back Elano.

Squads

Everton (from): Howard, Hibbert, Lescott, Jagielka, Stubbs, Valente, Baines, Arteta, Carsley, Cahill, Neville, McFadden, Johnson, Anichebe, Vaughan, Wessels, Gravesen, Anderson.

Manchester City (from): Hart, Isaksson, Onuoha, Corluka, Sun, Dunne, Richards, Garrido, Ball, Ireland, Hamann, Elano, Fernandes, Geovanni, Petrov, Castillo, Mpenza, Vassell, Bianchi, Samaras.

The Lowdown

This is a top six clash, in which victory for Everton would see them leapfrogging their fourth placed north-west rivals. David Moyes and Sven-Goran Eriksson are undoubtedly the managers responsible for the most improving sides in the Premiership.

Eyefootball Premiership Predictor

EVERTON 2-1 MAN CITY

Another winning game today in the Premiership which will see Everton come out on top. Unfortunately for Man City, who may see their mini run of form come to an end.

Goalscorer: Tim Cahill