Manchester City v Wigan: The Grass Isn’t Always Greener for Steve Bruce’s Wigan
After for so long denying his aim for a Champion’s League spot, Sven has this week come out and claimed that coveted fourth place is still within their grasp. The campaign was dealt a blow earlier in the week though as City went down 2-0 to Everton at home, seeing them flag behind the leading cluster of Liverpool, Villa and Everton.
This result was one of many disappointing performances City have displayed in recent weeks. Draws against West Ham and lowly Derby as well as defeat to Arsenal means they have only picked up 5 points from a possible 15. Although that derby day win at Old Trafford probably has a little life left in it for any needed inspiration.
Head to Head History
It might be necessary for City to draw on that momentous victory as they welcome Wigan - their second neighbour in a week - to Eastlands. On paper, it’s tempting to write this one off as a comfortable home win but when you realise City have not beaten the Latics since April 1999, you might do well to pause and reconsider.
In the last five run-ins, City have earned only one point courtesy of that one all draw at the beginning of December. The other four Wigan have won including last season’s 4-0 victory at home and 1-0 at today’s venue.
Travelling Troubles Wigan
Steve Bruce may breathe a slight sigh of relief as Wigan leave the JJB and it’s torn up pitch behind for the greener pastures of Eastlands but his team’s away form can only leave him breathless. Ten defeats, two draws, one win and just 9 goals scored (and 28 conceded) on the road means the Latics have a serious case of travel sickness.
They can take some solace in the return of Emile Heskey however who has returned to full fitness and is ready and raring to lead the Latics in their quest for survival. The 6-footer is without doubt a crucial part of Wigan’s campaign but even without Micah Richards partnering Richard Dunne at the box (the 19-year old faces several weeks on the sidelines after having surgery on a niggling knee injury), they’re not going to give themselves any more of a leeway come 90 minutes in this tie.
Pundit’s Pick: Bruce’ll be happy to get home (home win)
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Tags: Blues, Latics, Manchester City, Premier League preview, Premiership Football, Wigan
