Mario Balotelli could be given another chance

Mario Balotelli hasn't started a game since Manchester City's derby loss to Manchester United on December the 9th, with the striker's future appearing in doubt after he was involved in a training-ground scuffle with manager Roberto Mancini last week.

However, Sergio Aguero will miss Sunday's match against Arsenal and faces another week on the sidelines with a hamstring injury, opening the way for a return to the first eleven for the Italian.

Balotelli had missed four games with a virus prior to his return as a substitute against Watford in the FA Cup last week.

He made a surprise appearance for City's Under-21s on Monday and scored two goals in a friendly against Blackburn, while the 22-year-old has also dyed his hair blond this week.

Second-placed City, who is seven points behind Manchester United, has not scored at Arsenal's Emirates Stadium since 2007.