Manchester City square off against Newcastle United on Wednesday evening looking to strengthen their hold of second position in the Premier League table.

Despite losing three times in their last half-a-dozen league outings, City possess an eight-point advantage over third-placed Leicester City.

Although there is little riding on the game at the Etihad Stadium, Pep Guardiola will be eager for his side to produce a positive response after their surprise setback at Southampton on Sunday evening.

Here, Sports Mole predicts how City could line up for the visit of the Magpies.

Out: Sergio Aguero (knee)

> Click here for Man City's latest injury and suspension news ahead of this match

Faced with a third fixture in the space of a week and having only used two substitutes at St Mary's, Guardiola is expected to make sweeping changes to his team on Wednesday evening.

Midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, who was introduced as a replacement on the South Coast, is likely to line up alongside Rodri and Ilkay Gundogan, who also found themselves on the bench at the weekend.

Nicolas Otamendi is in line to return to the centre of the defence, potentially at the expense of Eric Garcia, while Benjamin Mendy will expect to feature at left-back.

Further forward, Phil Foden should be provided with another chance on the right flank, likely in place of Riyad Mahrez who could be dropped.

Despite a goalless streak which has now lasted nine matches, Gabriel Jesus is in line to retain his spot in the middle of the attack.

Sergio Aguero, who sustained a knee injury at the end of last month, is not expected to return until August at the earliest.