The view from Man City

How are Man City fans feeling about our visit, especially as this is the first of three meetings this month?

Given the hectic fixture list of late it has been difficult to focus too far in the future, but there is a danger it may get overshadowed given the Carling Cup fixtures (and FA Cup tie with United) that come after this game. A visit by Liverpool will never be an easy game but given City's record at home (14 consecutive wins stretching back to 2010-11) there will be a confidence heading into it. It is also a game City can ill afford to take lightly given how tight things are at the top of the table so although other crucial fixtures lie ahead, this fixture will have their fullest attention.

One song we're bound to hear?

I'd put good money on anything featuring Mario Balotelli.

Where can travelling fans get a pint?

I'd suggest a visit anywhere around the Northern Quarter area.

Best and worst thing about a trip to the Etihad Stadium?

It is a stadium that has come into its own the past couple of seasons. For a long time there was a feeling that fans were still settling into a new environment (don't forget it is not yet 10 years since they left Maine Road) but the atmosphere has been growing and it is a fantastic stadium to actually view a match in. Just hope it is not raining though as it could be a long and wet walk back into the city centre.

Players we should be worried about?

From an attacking sense City are blessed with numerous options. Much will depend upon the side Mancini deploys given the game is sandwiched between a congested festive period of games and then the FA Cup tie with United and Carling Cup semi-final games with yourselves, but the key player in terms of creating is obviously David Silva. So much of City's success goes through him, but another to watch for is Sergio Aguero who is currently in a real run of form.

And players you'll be worried about?

In terms of a threat in attack it would be Luis Suarez. He was a handful in the game at Anfield, particularly for Vincent Kompany who has looked so assured. There are questions over how potent he quite is in front of goal but he will certainly get in the areas where he could cause damage. A big loss though for Liverpool will be that of Lucas; he was excellent in the last meeting and really was the catalyst for Liverpool's midfield success.

What do you think the job Roberto Mancini has done at City?

He's done a very good job in my view. He has obviously been blessed with having riches to spend, but he has not wasted money in the transfer market and has now shaped the side into that of one he wants and the way the side has been able to play a more expansive game this season shows he has the confidence and trust in them. Champions League qualification and an FA Cup win, whilst anticipated, is still an achievement and he has succeeded so far in what has been asked of him. Now of course he needs to take that step further and prove he is capable of delivering the title and success in Europe.

Do you think in Joe Hart and Pepe Reina we will see the best two keepers on show in the Barclays Premier League?

I'd probably say so. Both have been very consistent the past couple of seasons and it is hard to find another keeper who has matched them during this time.

Best way to beat City?

The teams who have troubled City are those who have been able to pressure the midfield area. City like to operate high up the field with a lot of emphasis on the midfield to win and utilise possession in the opposition half. Most times, particular at The Etihad Stadium, have been content to sit back and get numbers behind the ball without much attacking purpose. What Liverpool managed in the game at Anfield was to not only restrict City's effectiveness in midfield - limiting their ability to create - but also to use possession effectively. This troubled City at times and resulted in season lows in terms of chances created and shots on goal.

Best and worst thing about being a City fan?

I'm sure this is no different than any other fan but having that shared sense of identity, history and camaraderie with a group of fellow fans is a very unique and special thing. Despite the success that has arrived (and will continue to do so) there hasn't been any noticeable change in fans approach - whilst undoubtedly enjoying the good times of late, memories are still fresh as to the less than successful years so they are not likely to get ahead of themselves any time soon. Given current circumstances it would very trite to be complaining about being a City fan so best not to answer that one!

Prediction?

A hard fought game, much like the one recently at Anfield, but I'll take City to continue their superb home form and shade it 1-0 or 2-1.