As the Premier League returns from the Christmas break, champions Manchester City will host Everton at the Etihad Stadium on Thursday.

City find themselves in unfamiliar territory, sitting outside the top six and a massive 12 points behind leaders Liverpool, having won just one of their last 12 matches in all competitions.

Manager Pep Guardiola will be desperate for his side to get back on track against an Everton team that has improved in recent weeks.

The Toffees have collected seven points from their last four games, keeping four clean sheets in that run. However, they face a daunting task against a City side that has not lost at home to Everton in 13 matches.

Team News

Manchester City could be without defender John Stones, who picked up a foot injury in the defeat to Aston Villa last time out.

Goalkeeper Ederson is also a doubt. Ruben Dias, Oscar Bobb and Rodri remain sidelined for the hosts.

Everton welcome back Armando Broja after he was ineligible to face parent club Chelsea last weekend. However, Dominic Calvert-Lewin is expected to continue leading the line despite his recent goal drought. Midfielder Dwight McNeil is a doubt after missing the Chelsea game.

Predicted Lineups

Manchester City: (4-2-3-1)

Ortega;

Walker, Akanji, Ake, Gvardiol;

De Bruyne, Kovacic;

Savinho, Foden, Doku;

Haaland

Everton: (4-5-1)

Pickford;

Coleman, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko;

Harrison, Gueye, Mangala, Doucoure, Ndiaye;

Calvert-Lewin

Despite their recent struggles, Manchester City should have enough quality to overcome an Everton side that has relied heavily on their defensive resilience this season. A home win for the champions is the predicted outcome.