Premier League: 10 things to look out for this weekend

Manchester City’s failing spark, Newcastle wracked by uncertainties, Cardiff’s vital double-header, Manchester United’s gathering defensive problems

Roy Hodgson said his side enjoyed “one of those bonanza days” when they beat Manchester City 3-2 at the Etihad in December. They did not gain a corner in the game, had 22% of possession and scored with all three of their shots on target. Yet their win was no fluke. It was the reward for sharp counterattacking and meticulous defending, as Palace successfully prevented their hosts from prising them apart. Pep Guardiola’s side often resorted to hopeful crosses into the box, shiny-wrapped gifts for Palace defenders. Hodgson will no doubt deploy a similar game plan this weekend. So Guardiola’s men are going to have to show more wit than they mustered in December or, indeed, in their recent games against Spurs and Brighton. City have won their past eight Premier League games but will need to improve on their most recent displays to make it nine in a row and avoid giving Liverpool a pre-Chelsea boost on Sunday. PD

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