TEAMtalk : Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini is ready to test the depth of his squad as they begin their January schedule with two games in three days.
Mancini’s title hopefuls travel to Sunderland on New Year’s Day before hosting Liverpool on January 3.
City then face arch-rivals Manchester United in the FA Cup and have a two-legged Carling Cup semi-final with Liverpool as well as games against Wigan and Tottenham before the end of the month.
Mancini said: “It is impossible to play in two days with the same players, this is sure. January will be a key month. We will have important games – FA Cup, Carling Cup, four in the Barclays Premier League.
“I think this month will be very important.”
City saw their two-point lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League wiped out as they were held to a goalless draw at West Brom on Boxing Day.