London - A likely suspension of Emmanuel Adebayor leaves Manchester City with a striker crisis as they prepare for the visit of Manchester United on Sunday. City have a 100 per cent record this season, and came through their first major challenge by beating Arsenal 4-2 last week.
But the trip to Old Trafford will be an even sterner test of their top-four credentials.
Already without the injured Robinho and Carlos Tevez, the last thing City needed was to lose Adebayor, but after he chose not to contest a charge of violent conduct was almost certain to be banned for three games when the disciplinary panel was due to meet on Thursday.
That leaves City hoping Roque Santa Cruz will be fit enough to make his debut for the club, although Craig Bellamy has been in good form this season.
"We are trying to get among the big four in this country," said City defender Kolo Toure. "We played well against Arsenal. To get three points against Arsenal was fantastic.
"Now we have to go to Old Trafford and show our credentials. It'll be a difficult game for them and we are looking forward to playing.
"Man City will be a force this season because we have so many great and good players. Also they have so much experience."
United have no new injury worries, and forward Wayne Rooney may feel he has a point to prove after reacting angrily to being substituted in Wednesday's 1-0 Champions League win away to Besiktas.
"The game is more special this season," said full-back Patrice Evra.
"When we have played them before they have never been in the top four. This year it is a big mission of City's to play in the Champions League.
"They have not lost yet, so they will come to Old Trafford with a lot of confidence. It will be an amazing game and it is a big challenge. I hope we are ready."
Late on Sunday afternoon leaders Chelsea, who have won five out of five in the league this season, host Tottenham, who had had a 100 per cent record before losing to United last Saturday.
Tottenham could have goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes back after a groin injury, and centre-back Sebastian Bassong is keen for Spurs to get their season back on track as soon as possible.
"We have to show a good reaction at Stamford Bridge, we have a good squad, a good spirit and that's what we intend to do," he said.
Elsewhere, Liverpool travel to West Ham United, Arsenal host Wigan Athletic and improving Aston Villa are home to Portsmouth, who are yet to pick up a point.
