Preview: Manchester City vs. Bayern Munich

Manchester City need to beat Bayern Munich in the Champions League on Tuesday if they are to have any hope of progressing from Group E.

The German champions have the option to rest players for their trip to the Etihad Stadium, as they are already assured of top spot in the group, with maximum points from their first four games.

Since losing to Borussia Dortmund in the German Super Cup in August, Pep Guardiola's side have been on an 18-match unbeaten run, including a last-gasp 1-0 win over the Premier League champions in their opening group fixture earlier this season.

Bastian Schweinsteiger could play a role, having come off the bench for his first action since injuring his knee in August during the 4-0 win over Hoffenheim at the weekend

Philipp Lahm will miss out though, as he is sidelined until next year with an ankle injury, while Javi Martinez, Pepe Reina and Thiago Alcantara are among a number of long-term absentees.

In order to remain in contention for a spot in the last 16, Manuel Pellegrini's side must beat Bayern, and hope that the other Group E match ends in a draw.

The hosts are currently bottom of the group, having drawn twice and lost twice in their first four matches.

Yaya Toure, who scored in the Premier League at the weekend, and Fernandinho are both suspended after being sent off against CSKA Moscow last time out.

Vincent Kompany is available though, having overcome a calf injury to play against Swansea City, but David Silva and Edin Dzeko are both doubts after missing the 2-1 win with injuries.

Man City:

Form in Champions League: LLLDDL Form in all competitions: LLWLDW

Possible starting lineup: Hart, Zabaleta, Kompany, Demichelis, Sagna, Clichy, Nasri, Navas, Milner, Aguero, Jovetic

Bayern Munich:

Form in Champions League: LLWWWW Form in all competitions: DWWWWW

Possible starting lineup: Neuer, Benatia, Boateng, Alaba, Rafinha, Schweinsteiger, Alonso, Bernat, Gotze, Ribery, Lewandowski

Sports Mole says: 0-2