Ashley Barnes pushing for rare Burnley start
Burnley striker Ashley Barnes is pushing for a first Premier League start since April when Manchester City visit Turf Moor.
Barnes has battled back to fitness after a lengthy lay-off and has impressed in three substitute appearances, putting Sam Vokes at risk up front.
George Boyd's tireless running could also put him in contention for a recall against City but there are no injuries to contend with.
Meanwhile, Sean Dyche believes Ben Mee's steady rise at Burnley proves there is life for young players beyond the Premier League elite.
Mee began his career at Manchester City but his years of development at the club resulted in a solitary League Cup appearance under Roberto Mancini in 2010.
He joined the Clarets on loan the following season and has never looked back, building his experience and reputation alongside defensive partner Michael Keane, who took a similar path having learned his trade at Manchester United.
While Keane is four years younger and has already received England recognition from Gareth Southgate, Dyche sees Mee as a perfect example of fighting for a top-flight career after early disappointment.
He bridles at the notion that the 27-year-old was poorly served by his time at City but acknowledges the opportunities for homegrown prospects are diminishing by the year.
"I don't think he's a victim of anything because he's come here, he's had a fantastic time and his maturation has been quite obvious," said Dyche.
"His growth has been steady and assured all through the different challenges he's had. He's certainly not a victim and you couldn't describe him as that, he does very nicely for himself.
"But the game's changing for elite clubs in particular and players often have to have a first career somewhere else - a loan, maybe even two or three, or you literally go away, have a first career somewhere else and then get a move back to one of those clubs.
"That's how football is often building now."
Manchester City will assess striker Sergio Aguero.
Manager Pep Guardiola says the Argentina forward ended the midweek Champions League clash at Borussia Monchengladbach "not injured, but with a little problem in his foot".
Defender Pablo Zabaleta will also be checked after missing the game in Germany with a knock but captain Vincent Kompany (knee) could be out for up to six weeks. Midfielder Fabian Delph is nearing a return after a groin operation.
Guardiola has warned his Manchester City team that Burnley will be dangerous opponents this weekend.
Guardiola said: "I saw their games. I am really impressed. I think it will be the toughest (game) for our regeneration, at 12.30.
"It is a derby, it is many things. We cannot forget they beat Liverpool, they lost in the 93rd minute against Arsenal and they draw at Old Trafford.
"What they do, they do really well. I am really impressed about their quality, their spirit.
"Of course they lost the last game 4-0 to West Brom, but I can imagine what happens when a team loses 4-0. Their attention and focus is higher than before.
"I prefer teams when they win a lot of games. They didn't win. So, in this moment, they are ready and prepared. In terms of intensity, I think they will be better. Their legs are faster and cleaner than ours.
"This game is key for us, so important in terms of the points and in terms of getting better at our kind of game."
Source: PAR
