Manchester City return to Premier League action on Thursday in the small matter of the Manchester derby against United at the Etihad Stadium (8pm kick-off).

Pep Guardiola’s side were beaten 2-1 by Arsenal in the FA Cup semi-finals last weekend to all but end their chances of any silverware this season, which in turn will be Guardiola’s first ever trophyless campaign in management.

However, they can still secure a top four finish and thus qualify for the Champions League next season, although they could really do with victory over Jose Mourinho’s United, who sit a point and a place behind them in the table.

The Red Devils upped the ante on those above them with a 2-0 win over Burnley on Sunday to extend their unbeaten league run to 23 games, and with ten wins from their 15 away games this term, they’ll go to the Etihad confident of getting the win which would take them above their neighbours into the top four.

Nonetheless, Guardiola’s men, with home advantage, will be favourites to get the three points on Thursday, although the Spaniard may make a few changes to his side following their disappointing defeat to the Gunners on Sunday.

Thus, here are THREE City stars who deserve a chance against United…

Fabian Delph

David Silva is a big doubt for the Manchester derby after coming off injured in their FA Cup defeat to Arsenal on Sunday, following a hefty challenge from Gabriel.

And that could mean that England international Fabian Delph gets an opportunity in the centre of midfield against United.

The 27-year-old has only managed two Premier League starts in an injury-ravaged campaign at the Etihad Stadium, but his most recent league outing saw him net and produce a fine display in their 3-0 success over Hull a few weeks ago.

Delph also got a further 20 minutes of action on Sunday at Wembley to suggest that he’s right back in the fold at the club, so he may well get the nod on Thursday.

Raheem Sterling

England international Raheem Sterling has been somewhat out of favour in recent weeks, but may come back into the fold against United.

The 22-year-old started the season on fire with five goals and five assists in his first ten games in all competitions, and with six goals and six assists in the Premier League this season, only Sergio Aguero and Kevin De Bruyne (both 17) have been directly involved in more goals than the winger.

And City may need his creative spark against a United side who will likely be content to soak up pressure and stand firm at the Etihad on Thursday.

Gabriel Jesus

Brazil international Gabriel Jesus looked set to miss the rest of the season after breaking his foot against Bournemouth back in February.

Yet the 19-year-old has been back training in recent weeks and may even make an appearance against United on Thursday.

And if he is indeed fit to play a part at the Etihad Stadium, then Guardiola should seriously consider him given City’s lack of killer instinct in recent weeks.

The Brazil forward made a stunning start to life in Manchester back in January with three goals in four Premier League appearances, and if he can replicate that sharpness he showed and clinical edge in the box, then a makeshift United backline could be in trouble on Thursday.