Manchester City find themselves in a bit of a pickle so early on in the season - well on paper anyway.
Pep Guardiola's side find themselves eight points behind leaders Liverpool after eight games - echoing last season's scenario of trailing Jurgen Klopp's team by 10 points before winning the title on the last day of the season.
No doubt, frustrating for a manager, who has been dubbed a perfectionist, fighting against a club with a perfect record in the league.
But it can all change in as little as three games or as big as 30.
The Pools caught up with MEN’s Simon Bajkowski:
Recommended bets
City to win 3-1 - 9/1
Riyad Mahrez to score first - 6/1
Win, lose or draw?
City to win simply because they have to. Expect it to be tight for a while though. 3-1 at 9/1 with The Pools .
Who’s a good bet for 1st scorer?
Riyad Mahrez. He's been excellent this season and heavily involved in the goals. He’s at an attractive price at 6/1 with The Pools too.
Who’s on the naughty step?
Rodri has been overworked in recent games and occupies has the most pivotal role in the team for controlling the game.
Who’s on pens?
Sergio Aguero as usual - if he plays. He’s 12/5 to score first and 6/10 anytime .
Will you keep a clean sheet?
City's defence looked anything but tight before the international break, but they're also almost always good for at least one goal. No clean sheet for Ederson again is priced at 3/4.
footie5
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