Despite having both Nicolas Otamendi and John Stones back to full fitness, Manchester City fans want to see Fernandinho continue in central defence against Southampton.
Suspended for the Carabao Cup win over the Saints this week, Fernandinho is back available and gives Pep Guardiola a decision to make regarding who starts at centre-back.
With Otamendi and Stones both being eased back into action over the last fortnight, they should both be ready to start against Southampton. However, Fernandinho has performed admirably in their absence at the back and could offer a reassuring presence.
Guardiola rested a number of players in midweek, meaning the likes of Ederson, Benjamin Mendy, Ilkay Gundogan, Kevin de Bruyne, David Silva and Raheem Sterling are likely to start.
But Fernandinho's return offers Guardiola a choice in midfield and defence, so when MEN Sport asked fans to choose their starting XI, his inclusion provides an insight into how supporters feel about the defensive options available to Guardiola.
Fans opted to start Fernandinho in defence alongside Stones, dropping Otamendi to the bench despite his goal on Tuesday.
Joao Cancelo was preferred to Kyle Walker in the fans' most popular side, with Mendy replacing Angelino at left-back.
In midfield, a refreshed trio of Gundogan, De Bruyne and David Silva are the chosen players in supporters' eyes, with Sergio Aguero getting the nod over Gabriel Jesus upfront.
Raheem Sterling and Riyad Mahrez complete the most popular team, meaning Bernardo Silva and Phil Foden must settle for places on the bench.
Most popular XI by Man City fans: Ederson, Cancelo, Stones, Fernandinho, Mendy, De Bruyne, Gundogan, D.Silva, Mahrez, Sterling, Aguero.
Choose your own starting XI using the widget below:
