Preview: Manchester City vs. Sheffield Wednesday

Manchester City will begin the defence of their Capital One Cup title when they host Sheffield Wednesday in the third round on Wednesday evening.

Manuel Pellegrini's side head into the match on a run of four games without a win in all competitions, including defeats to Stoke City and Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

Pablo Zabaleta will be unavailable for the tie, having been shown a red card during Sunday's 1-1 draw with Chelsea, while Stevan Jovetic and Fernando are doubtful with hamstring and groin injuries respectively.

Meanwhile, the Owls have already faced Premier League opponents in this competition this season, knocking Burnley out in the last round.

Stuart Gray's side have been in strong form in the Championship, losing just once so far this season, and winning their last two games, including a 1-0 victory over Reading at the weekend.

Former City youth player Keiren Westwood could face his former club, with the goalkeeper keeping five clean sheets in eight outings in the league this season.

Recent form

Man City: WWLDLD

Sheffield Wednesday: WLWDWW

Possible starting lineups

Man City: Caballero, Kolarov, Nastasic, Boyata, Clichy, Fernandinho, Milner, Nasri, Sinclair, Lampard, Dzeko

Sheffield Wednesday: Westwood, Palmer, Loovens, Lees, Mattock, Hope, Semedo, Maguire, Maghoma, May, Nuhiu

Sports Mole says: 2-0