The 3 key battles as Manchester City host Liverpool this afternoon

Leroy Sane v Nathaniel Clyne

City attacker Leroy Sane has been in scintillating form for the Citizens since the turn of the year, and will once again be one of their go-to men this afternoon.

The German international has scored four goals and laid on two assists in his last six games for the Manchester side, with the 0-0 draw at home to Stoke the only game where he hasn’t directly contributed a goal since the middle of February.

His pace and trickery has been a key feature in City’s relentless attacking play in recent weeks, and it’s something Liverpool defender Nathaniel Clyne will have to deal with at the Etihad today.

The England defender has been an ever-present in the Premier League for the Reds this term, with his incredible consistency and ability to affect things in both boxes a key part of Liverpool’s play.

This afternoon, the 25-year-old will know that he’ll have to be disciplined defensively and marshal Sane well, otherwise the City man will get a lot of success down the Liverpool right, and potentially win the game for the hosts.