Team News: Dedryck Boyata handed Manchester City start

Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has handed a start to defender Dedryck Boyata for his side's match with Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.

The 24-year-old, who has only made two appearances for City this season, has been drafted in to replace the injured Vincent Kompany.

The only other alteration to the team that started the 3-0 win over Southampton sees Martin Demichelis replace Eliaquim Mangala, who is suspended after being sent off at St Mary's.

As for Sunderland, boss Gus Poyet has made two changes to the team that earned a 0-0 draw with Premier League leaders Chelsea on Saturday evening.

Sebastian Coates has replaced Wes Brown in defence, while winger Will Buckley has come in for Adam Johnson, who misses out against his former club.

Sunderland: Pantilimon, Vergini, Reveillere, O'Shea, Coates, Cattermole, Larsson, Rodwell, Buckley, Wickham, Fletcher Subs: Mannone, Bridcutt, Brown, Cabral, Gomez, Alvarez, Altidore

Manchester City: Hart, Zabaleta, Boyata, Demichelis, Clichy, Fernandinho, Toure, Nasri, Navas, Jovetic, Aguero Subs: Cabellero, Angelino, Sagna, Fernando, Lampard, Milner, Pozo

Keep track of the game in the North-East by following Sports Mole's live commentary.