City, though, could have both Foden and Akanji in contention for Saturday. England attacker Foden missed the Palace game with a knock suffered against United, while Swiss centre-back Akanji has not played since the first leg of the Champions League play-off tie against Real Madrid in February having undergone surgery on a torn abductor muscle.

They head to Goodison one point clear of Chelsea in fifth, which will ensure a place in the Champions League next season. They will take heart from the fact they have a fine recent record against Everton, not losing to the Toffees since that famous Tom Davies-inspired 4-0 game in 2017.