Watch Cardiff V Sunderland Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 28 -December 2013. Cardiff midfielder Gary Medel is hopeful of returning to the side after sitting out the Boxing Day defeat by Southampton with flu.
Craig Bellamy misses out because of a knee injury, but there are no new injury concerns.Watch Cardiff V Sunderland Live, Watch Cardiff V Sunderland Live Stream, Watch Cardiff V Sunderland Free Live Stream, Watch Cardiff V Sunderland Online, Watch Cardiff V Sunderland Online Free, Cardiff V Sunderland Live, Cardiff V Sunderland live stream Online.
Sunderland boss Gus Poyet is without the suspended Wes Brown, while fellow defender John O'Shea could again be absent with a shoulder injury.
Keiren Westwood and Carlos Cuellar remain on the sidelines.
MATCH PREVIEW
So, after months of undermining and destabilising his manager, Cardiff City's owner Vincent Tan has finally made the move to sack Malky Mackay.
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
Image of Mark Lawrenson Mark Lawrenson Football analyst
"We had been waiting for Cardiff owner Vincent Tan to make a decision and now he has made it. Malky Mackay has gone. Now we have to wait and see what Tan does next.
This is a huge game for both teams. Sunderland got a big win against Everton, which might end up being a turning point in their season."
Read Lawro's full prediction and score
In my original preview of this match I openly wondered how much longer their non-existent relationship could go on for. I did think Mackay was still going to be the one I was interviewing after this particular match, but long term there seemed only one outcome.
I think someone's going to have a decent manager very soon, and I'm not talking about Cardiff. Having taken them to the League Cup final in 2012 and promotion earlier this year, Mackay is likely to be a man in demand and won't be twiddling his thumbs for long.
That's not to say all was well on the pitch. The fans protested against Tan before the kick off on Boxing Day, but Thursday's defeat was their fifth in the last eight matches.
Southampton cut Cardiff's defence to shreds in the opening half an hour and the owner clearly didn't take kindly to seeing his club three goals down by half time for the second time inside a week.
It isn't just the goals they're conceding that are the problem - Cardiff are finding scoring at the other end particularly tricky at the moment.
Things aren't about to get any easier at the start of the new year either, with three of the next four matches away to Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United.
It puts a premium on getting something from this one against Sunderland and the visit of West Ham on 14 January. It also adds to the urgency of getting a good replacement in quickly, though it sounds as though feelers have already been put out.
Sunderland will travel to South Wales with an extra spring in their step following an unexpected three points at Everton on Boxing Day.
Gus Poyet acknowledged Tim Howard's red card changed the game and the performance of his own goalkeeper Vito Mannone probably won it for them, but he'll take the points however they come.
The victory brings them right back up on everyone else's coat tails and there are now eight teams separated by just six points at the bottom.
It looks like it isn't just the title race that promises to be exciting and nerve-shredding this season.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
This is the first top-flight meeting between the clubs since the 1956-57 season.
They last met in the Championship in the 2006-07 season. Both sides enjoyed away victories.
Cardiff
The Bluebirds have managed one win and five points from their last eight games.
They have taken seven points from the last 15 available at home.
Cardiff have scored just five goals in their last 10 Premier League games.
They have scored only eight goals in nine home league matches this season.
Sunderland
Sunderland won their first away game this season against Everton on Boxing Day. In 2013, they have won just three of 18 away league matches (W3, D3, L12).
They have been given more red cards in Premier League games than any other side this season (five).
The Black Cats have won only one of their 12 final games of the year in the Premier League (3-1 v Bolton in 2007).
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Watch Norwich V Man Utd Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 28 -December 2013
Watch Norwich V Man Utd Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 28 -December 2013.Norwich midfielder Jonny Howson will face a fitness test on the back injury that has kept him out for two matches.
Defender Michael Turner is suspended after receiving his fifth yellow card of the season on Boxing Day.
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Manchester United right-back Rafael is doubtful after coming off with a groin injury against Hull.
Antonio Valencia is suspended after picking up a red card in that game, while Phil Jones is out for a fortnight with a knee injury.
MATCH PREVIEW
Norwich may sit with three teams between them and the bottom three but Chris Hughton will not be fooled by that; one bad day and they could be in the relegation zone themselves.
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
Image of Mark Lawrenson Mark Lawrenson Football analyst
"Nemanja Vidic was on the bench against Hull on Boxing Day and I just wonder if that was a view to playing him in this game. It will help United if he does play because they miss him when he doesn't.
"Apart from Rio Ferdinand, whoever else it is at centre-back - out of a combination of any two of Phil Jones, Jonny Evans or Chris Smalling - just seems to lack an experienced head that will allow the other defender to concentrate on their own game."
Read Lawro's full prediction and score
The Boxing Day defeat at home to Fulham was damaging enough in itself without being seriously compounded by away wins for Sunderland and Crystal Palace which drew Norwich further back into the discomfort zone.
The likeable Hughton now has something of a selection dilemma; does he take the view that New Year's Day and the trip to Palace is such a six-pointer that it's worth preserving the legs of some of his key men against United - a match they might lose anyway, whatever team he picks?
I don't see the Norwich boss going down that route. After all, Norwich beat United in this game last season, and what better way to get tiredness out of your legs and confidence coursing through your veins than a really good display against the champions?
They have some really good players at Carrow Road, and with Gary Hooper beginning to show that goals are his stock in trade, I still firmly believe that they are good enough to stay up - but they are just a defeat or two from a real crisis.
United seem to have ridden out their own tempest with some impressive character. Three consecutive league wins have put them back on the margins of the title race and calmed the nerves at Old Trafford.
In fact, United seem happier away from home at the moment - they have not lost in 10 trips over the course of more than three months.
Less than three weeks ago, David Moyes' side were ninth, 13 points behind the leaders, now they are seventh having cut the deficit to eight points. If they can hang in there until Van Persie and Vidic are fit, United will ensure that the leading pack need to keep glancing over their shoulders now and again.
As the announcer on the London Underground says: "Mind the Gap".
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Norwich have beaten Manchester United on two of the three occasions they have hosted them in the Premier League.
But United have won 4-0 the last two times that the teams have met, including in the League Cup in October.
Norwich
Norwich have only lost four of their 18 Premier League home games in 2013.
The Canaries have picked up five points from the 15 available so far in December.
Only Fulham (35) have conceded more than the 31 league goals that Norwich have let in this season.
Gary Hooper has scored in each of Norwich's last four home games, and has scored four of their last six league goals.
Manchester United
They have won five successive league and cup matches for the first time under David Moyes, and are aiming for a season's best fourth league win in a row.
United have done better on the road than at Old Trafford season. They have earned 17 points from nine away games, and 14 from their nine home games.
The Red Devils have not lost away from home in any competition since Manchester City defeated them 4-1 in September (W6, D4).
Defender Michael Turner is suspended after receiving his fifth yellow card of the season on Boxing Day.
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Manchester United right-back Rafael is doubtful after coming off with a groin injury against Hull.
Antonio Valencia is suspended after picking up a red card in that game, while Phil Jones is out for a fortnight with a knee injury.
MATCH PREVIEW
Norwich may sit with three teams between them and the bottom three but Chris Hughton will not be fooled by that; one bad day and they could be in the relegation zone themselves.
LAWRO'S PREDICTION
Image of Mark Lawrenson Mark Lawrenson Football analyst
"Nemanja Vidic was on the bench against Hull on Boxing Day and I just wonder if that was a view to playing him in this game. It will help United if he does play because they miss him when he doesn't.
"Apart from Rio Ferdinand, whoever else it is at centre-back - out of a combination of any two of Phil Jones, Jonny Evans or Chris Smalling - just seems to lack an experienced head that will allow the other defender to concentrate on their own game."
Read Lawro's full prediction and score
The Boxing Day defeat at home to Fulham was damaging enough in itself without being seriously compounded by away wins for Sunderland and Crystal Palace which drew Norwich further back into the discomfort zone.
The likeable Hughton now has something of a selection dilemma; does he take the view that New Year's Day and the trip to Palace is such a six-pointer that it's worth preserving the legs of some of his key men against United - a match they might lose anyway, whatever team he picks?
I don't see the Norwich boss going down that route. After all, Norwich beat United in this game last season, and what better way to get tiredness out of your legs and confidence coursing through your veins than a really good display against the champions?
They have some really good players at Carrow Road, and with Gary Hooper beginning to show that goals are his stock in trade, I still firmly believe that they are good enough to stay up - but they are just a defeat or two from a real crisis.
United seem to have ridden out their own tempest with some impressive character. Three consecutive league wins have put them back on the margins of the title race and calmed the nerves at Old Trafford.
In fact, United seem happier away from home at the moment - they have not lost in 10 trips over the course of more than three months.
Less than three weeks ago, David Moyes' side were ninth, 13 points behind the leaders, now they are seventh having cut the deficit to eight points. If they can hang in there until Van Persie and Vidic are fit, United will ensure that the leading pack need to keep glancing over their shoulders now and again.
As the announcer on the London Underground says: "Mind the Gap".
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Norwich have beaten Manchester United on two of the three occasions they have hosted them in the Premier League.
But United have won 4-0 the last two times that the teams have met, including in the League Cup in October.
Norwich
Norwich have only lost four of their 18 Premier League home games in 2013.
The Canaries have picked up five points from the 15 available so far in December.
Only Fulham (35) have conceded more than the 31 league goals that Norwich have let in this season.
Gary Hooper has scored in each of Norwich's last four home games, and has scored four of their last six league goals.
Manchester United
They have won five successive league and cup matches for the first time under David Moyes, and are aiming for a season's best fourth league win in a row.
United have done better on the road than at Old Trafford season. They have earned 17 points from nine away games, and 14 from their nine home games.
The Red Devils have not lost away from home in any competition since Manchester City defeated them 4-1 in September (W6, D4).
Watch Man City V Crystal Palace Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 28 -December 2013
Watch Man City V Crystal Palace Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 28 -December 2013. Manchester City's fit-again defender Matija Nastasic could be recalled against Crystal Palace, having been among the substitutes on Boxing Day.Watch Man City V Crystal Palace Live, Watch Man City V Crystal Palace Live Stream, Watch Man City V Crystal Palace Free Live Stream, Watch Man City V Crystal Palace Online, Watch Man City V Crystal Palace Online Free, Man City V Crystal Palace Live, Man City V Crystal Palace live stream Online.
Martin Demichelis missed that match because of injury, and Sergio Aguero, Micah Richards and Stevan Jovetic are all still out.
Crystal Palace forward Marouane Chamakh is available after suspension.
The recalled Yannick Bolasie impressed in the 1-0 win at Aston Villa and may keep his place.
MATCH PREVIEW
Notwithstanding their fully-merited Boxing Day win against Aston Villa, you fear for Crystal Palace at the Etihad Stadium. But, then, you fear for any side visiting Manchester City this season.
Christmas leaders Liverpool had the temerity to open the scoring at the home of the 2012 champions on Boxing Day but they eventually succumbed to defeat, just like every other Premier League visitor before them.
Yes, Liverpool worried City and the hosts benefitted from one or two controversial decisions, but Manuel Pellegrini's side demonstrated they can dig in when not at their devastating best.
Nonetheless, devastating has been City's default setting, of course.
They have put seven goals past Norwich, scored six against both Tottenham and Arsenal and four against Manchester United and Newcastle. In fact, four goals in a home match works out as below average for City this season!
Avoiding defeat on Saturday would seem an impossible job for Tony Pulis. Then again, keeping Crystal Palace up seemed an impossible job when Pulis was appointed in November. Four wins - and clean sheets - in seven games have followed as the Eagles have flown the prickly nest of the relegation zone.
The stoppage-time goal by Dwight Gayle that earned them victory at Aston Villa on Boxing Day was a top-class strike from a player who Pulis had publically doubted beforehand was ready for the Premier League.
Plenty of people have thought the same about the Crystal Palace squad in general this season, but Pulis has marshalled his side into an organised and tenacious bunch.
They have not, though, faced a side as ruthless and rampant at home as Manchester City. The visitors will need to summon all of their recently-acquired qualities, and ride their luck, to prevent a comfortable home victory.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Crystal Palace have lost their last three trips to Manchester City and are winless in seven attempts since a 2-0 top-flight victory on 22 December 1990.
Manchester City
City are the only team in the Premier League this season yet to drop a point at home. They have also scored in each of their last 59 Premier League home games.
If they score on Saturday, City will break their own Premier League record of 53 goals from the opening 19 games, set in 2011-12.
They are unbeaten in their last seven league matches (W6, D1) but are attempting to earn four successive wins for the first time under Manuel Pellegrini.
City are unbeaten in their final game of the year since returning to the Premier League in 2002-03 (W5, D6).
Alvaro Negredo has scored in each of his last nine appearances at the Etihad Stadium.
Crystal Palace
Tony Pulis has won nine points from his six Premier League games in charge of Crystal Palace - two more than Ian Holloway and Keith Millen won combined from 12 matches.
The Eagles have kept five clean sheets in their last eight league fixtures.
They have only taken one point from their nine games against top-half opposition.
Palace have scored the fewest goals in the division (12) and failed to recover any points from losing positions.
Martin Demichelis missed that match because of injury, and Sergio Aguero, Micah Richards and Stevan Jovetic are all still out.
Crystal Palace forward Marouane Chamakh is available after suspension.
The recalled Yannick Bolasie impressed in the 1-0 win at Aston Villa and may keep his place.
MATCH PREVIEW
Notwithstanding their fully-merited Boxing Day win against Aston Villa, you fear for Crystal Palace at the Etihad Stadium. But, then, you fear for any side visiting Manchester City this season.
Christmas leaders Liverpool had the temerity to open the scoring at the home of the 2012 champions on Boxing Day but they eventually succumbed to defeat, just like every other Premier League visitor before them.
Yes, Liverpool worried City and the hosts benefitted from one or two controversial decisions, but Manuel Pellegrini's side demonstrated they can dig in when not at their devastating best.
Nonetheless, devastating has been City's default setting, of course.
They have put seven goals past Norwich, scored six against both Tottenham and Arsenal and four against Manchester United and Newcastle. In fact, four goals in a home match works out as below average for City this season!
Avoiding defeat on Saturday would seem an impossible job for Tony Pulis. Then again, keeping Crystal Palace up seemed an impossible job when Pulis was appointed in November. Four wins - and clean sheets - in seven games have followed as the Eagles have flown the prickly nest of the relegation zone.
The stoppage-time goal by Dwight Gayle that earned them victory at Aston Villa on Boxing Day was a top-class strike from a player who Pulis had publically doubted beforehand was ready for the Premier League.
Plenty of people have thought the same about the Crystal Palace squad in general this season, but Pulis has marshalled his side into an organised and tenacious bunch.
They have not, though, faced a side as ruthless and rampant at home as Manchester City. The visitors will need to summon all of their recently-acquired qualities, and ride their luck, to prevent a comfortable home victory.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Crystal Palace have lost their last three trips to Manchester City and are winless in seven attempts since a 2-0 top-flight victory on 22 December 1990.
Manchester City
City are the only team in the Premier League this season yet to drop a point at home. They have also scored in each of their last 59 Premier League home games.
If they score on Saturday, City will break their own Premier League record of 53 goals from the opening 19 games, set in 2011-12.
They are unbeaten in their last seven league matches (W6, D1) but are attempting to earn four successive wins for the first time under Manuel Pellegrini.
City are unbeaten in their final game of the year since returning to the Premier League in 2002-03 (W5, D6).
Alvaro Negredo has scored in each of his last nine appearances at the Etihad Stadium.
Crystal Palace
Tony Pulis has won nine points from his six Premier League games in charge of Crystal Palace - two more than Ian Holloway and Keith Millen won combined from 12 matches.
The Eagles have kept five clean sheets in their last eight league fixtures.
They have only taken one point from their nine games against top-half opposition.
Palace have scored the fewest goals in the division (12) and failed to recover any points from losing positions.
Watch Hull V Fulham Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 28 -December 2013
Watch Hull V Fulham Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 28 -December 2013.Hull goalkeeper Allan McGregor and midfielder David Meyler are both unlikely to be fit after suffering knee injuries against Manchester United.
Alex Bruce is struggling with a calf problem sustained in the same game.Watch Hull V Fulham Live, Watch Hull V Fulham Live Stream, Watch Hull V Fulham Free Live Stream, Watch Hull V Fulham Online, Watch Hull V Fulham Online Free, Hull V Fulham Live, Hull V Fulham live stream Online.
Fulham goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg has not recovered from an ankle injury so David Stockdale will again deputise.
Forward Dimitar Berbatov missed the win at Norwich with a groin injury but could be fit enough again to feature against Hull.
MATCH PREVIEW
The visit of Fulham to the KC Stadium will bring back many fantastic memories for Hull City supporters. Their Premier League debut was against the London club in August 2008 when they came from behind to pick up all the points.
That victory set the tone for an impressive start to life in the top flight, and incredibly the Tigers were third by the end of October.
However, a dramatic downturn in form saw them tumble down the table and they came perilously close to being relegated, surviving the drop by just one point.
Some fans might be concerned that a similar fate awaits this time as a solid start has given way to a run of poor results, with Steve Bruce's side managing just two wins since September.
Early joy on Boxing Day turned into bitter disappointment as they threw away a 2-0 lead over champions Manchester United to lose 3-2 and end the day just four points above the relegation zone.
It's Fulham who occupy that final relegation spot. But there's a new swagger about the team since Rene Meulensteen replaced Martin Jol as head coach.
They have rediscovered the winning habit, enjoying victories over Norwich and Aston Villa, and although they were thrashed at Everton, they pushed Spurs and Manchester City all the way before losing.
With fellow strugglers West Ham and Sunderland coming to Craven Cottage early in the New Year, there's a real opportunity for Fulham to climb away from trouble.
A first away win on Humberside since 1996 would be a huge step in the right direction.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Hull have won three of the four Premier League meetings between the sides.
Hull beat Fulham 2-1 in August 2008 in their first top-flight game.
Hull City
Hull are without a win in five league games (D3, L2).
They let in three goals against Manchester United on Boxing Day, having conceded just three in total in their previous eight home matches this season.
Nonetheless, no team has conceded fewer goals at home than Hull (six).
Fulham
Fulham have lost eight of their last 10 Premier League matches.
They have performed better away this season than at Craven Cottage, earning nine points from their nine away matches, as opposed to seven from nine home matches.
Rene Meulensteen's side have conceded 35 league goals, more than any other top-flight team.
Alex Bruce is struggling with a calf problem sustained in the same game.Watch Hull V Fulham Live, Watch Hull V Fulham Live Stream, Watch Hull V Fulham Free Live Stream, Watch Hull V Fulham Online, Watch Hull V Fulham Online Free, Hull V Fulham Live, Hull V Fulham live stream Online.
Fulham goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg has not recovered from an ankle injury so David Stockdale will again deputise.
Forward Dimitar Berbatov missed the win at Norwich with a groin injury but could be fit enough again to feature against Hull.
MATCH PREVIEW
The visit of Fulham to the KC Stadium will bring back many fantastic memories for Hull City supporters. Their Premier League debut was against the London club in August 2008 when they came from behind to pick up all the points.
That victory set the tone for an impressive start to life in the top flight, and incredibly the Tigers were third by the end of October.
However, a dramatic downturn in form saw them tumble down the table and they came perilously close to being relegated, surviving the drop by just one point.
Some fans might be concerned that a similar fate awaits this time as a solid start has given way to a run of poor results, with Steve Bruce's side managing just two wins since September.
Early joy on Boxing Day turned into bitter disappointment as they threw away a 2-0 lead over champions Manchester United to lose 3-2 and end the day just four points above the relegation zone.
It's Fulham who occupy that final relegation spot. But there's a new swagger about the team since Rene Meulensteen replaced Martin Jol as head coach.
They have rediscovered the winning habit, enjoying victories over Norwich and Aston Villa, and although they were thrashed at Everton, they pushed Spurs and Manchester City all the way before losing.
With fellow strugglers West Ham and Sunderland coming to Craven Cottage early in the New Year, there's a real opportunity for Fulham to climb away from trouble.
A first away win on Humberside since 1996 would be a huge step in the right direction.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Hull have won three of the four Premier League meetings between the sides.
Hull beat Fulham 2-1 in August 2008 in their first top-flight game.
Hull City
Hull are without a win in five league games (D3, L2).
They let in three goals against Manchester United on Boxing Day, having conceded just three in total in their previous eight home matches this season.
Nonetheless, no team has conceded fewer goals at home than Hull (six).
Fulham
Fulham have lost eight of their last 10 Premier League matches.
They have performed better away this season than at Craven Cottage, earning nine points from their nine away matches, as opposed to seven from nine home matches.
Rene Meulensteen's side have conceded 35 league goals, more than any other top-flight team.
Watch Aston Villa V Swansea Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 28 -December 2013
Watch Aston Villa V Swansea Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 28 -December 2013.Injured Aston Villa pair Ron Vlaar and Christian Benteke will again be missing for Saturday's visit of Swansea.
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Midfielder Ashley Westwood is available after serving a one-match ban.
Swansea boss Michael Laudrup is expected to freshen up his side, with the likes of Wilfried Bony, Pablo Hernandez and Jonathan de Guzman all in contention to start.
However, the quartet of Michu, Nathan Dyer, Michel Vorm and Garry Monk remain sidelined by injury.
MATCH PREVIEW
Given the recent fortunes of these two clubs you sense this fixture has taken on greater significance, with an opportunity to end the year on a high.
Villa have now lost four games in a row, while the excursions of the Europa League mean Swansea have taken just 10 points from the last 10 games.
Paul Lambert says it is his job to look upwards but the harsh reality of his team's situation is that they are very much looking over their shoulder.
They are just one point better off than this stage last season, when they endured a long winter before their positive end to the campaign.
The biggest concern will be their home form. They have lost six of their nine games at Villa Park this season but the problem is more deep rooted - the home supporters have seen only 11 victories in the last 47.
Villa haven't scored in five of their last six games at home and their total of only six goals is the worst in any of the four top divisions. It is little wonder the natives are restless.
There will be anxiety in the air and Swansea will look to capitalise on that. Michael Laudrup's team have won more games away than at the Liberty stadium.
Despite the fact they are without the injured Michu and are waiting for record signing Wilfried Bony to really start firing, only eight teams have scored more goals than them so far this season.
Whatever the outcome, the Welsh side will look back on 2013 with fond memories. A fifth straight defeat for Villa and they will certainly be glad to see it end.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Swansea have lost eight of their nine previous league trips to Villa Park, failing to score in all eight defeats. Their solitary win was by 2-0 on 2 January 2012.
This is only the 22nd meeting between the sides. Aston Villa have won 15, Swansea four and there have been two draws.
Aston Villa
Aston Villa have lost four successive league matches. They have not lost five games in a row since January 2001.
They have lost more than half of their last 47 Premier League matches at Villa Park, earning just 45 points in that period (W11, D12, L24).
Paul Lambert's side have not scored in five of their last six Premier League home games. Villa's tally of six goals at home is the lowest in the division and they are the only side yet to score in the first half in front of their own fans.
Villa have failed to score in half of their league matches this season, the joint-worst record in the division.
Swansea
Swansea are enduring a four-match winless streak (D2, L2), their worst run of the season.
They have only won two of their last 10 league matches.
The Swans have benefited from five own goals this season. Apart from when Manchester United had 10 in 2009-10, no team has had more than six in one season.
They are unbeaten after scoring first (W5, D2) but have only taken two points from 10 games after conceding the opening goal.
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Midfielder Ashley Westwood is available after serving a one-match ban.
Swansea boss Michael Laudrup is expected to freshen up his side, with the likes of Wilfried Bony, Pablo Hernandez and Jonathan de Guzman all in contention to start.
However, the quartet of Michu, Nathan Dyer, Michel Vorm and Garry Monk remain sidelined by injury.
MATCH PREVIEW
Given the recent fortunes of these two clubs you sense this fixture has taken on greater significance, with an opportunity to end the year on a high.
Villa have now lost four games in a row, while the excursions of the Europa League mean Swansea have taken just 10 points from the last 10 games.
Paul Lambert says it is his job to look upwards but the harsh reality of his team's situation is that they are very much looking over their shoulder.
They are just one point better off than this stage last season, when they endured a long winter before their positive end to the campaign.
The biggest concern will be their home form. They have lost six of their nine games at Villa Park this season but the problem is more deep rooted - the home supporters have seen only 11 victories in the last 47.
Villa haven't scored in five of their last six games at home and their total of only six goals is the worst in any of the four top divisions. It is little wonder the natives are restless.
There will be anxiety in the air and Swansea will look to capitalise on that. Michael Laudrup's team have won more games away than at the Liberty stadium.
Despite the fact they are without the injured Michu and are waiting for record signing Wilfried Bony to really start firing, only eight teams have scored more goals than them so far this season.
Whatever the outcome, the Welsh side will look back on 2013 with fond memories. A fifth straight defeat for Villa and they will certainly be glad to see it end.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Swansea have lost eight of their nine previous league trips to Villa Park, failing to score in all eight defeats. Their solitary win was by 2-0 on 2 January 2012.
This is only the 22nd meeting between the sides. Aston Villa have won 15, Swansea four and there have been two draws.
Aston Villa
Aston Villa have lost four successive league matches. They have not lost five games in a row since January 2001.
They have lost more than half of their last 47 Premier League matches at Villa Park, earning just 45 points in that period (W11, D12, L24).
Paul Lambert's side have not scored in five of their last six Premier League home games. Villa's tally of six goals at home is the lowest in the division and they are the only side yet to score in the first half in front of their own fans.
Villa have failed to score in half of their league matches this season, the joint-worst record in the division.
Swansea
Swansea are enduring a four-match winless streak (D2, L2), their worst run of the season.
They have only won two of their last 10 league matches.
The Swans have benefited from five own goals this season. Apart from when Manchester United had 10 in 2009-10, no team has had more than six in one season.
They are unbeaten after scoring first (W5, D2) but have only taken two points from 10 games after conceding the opening goal.
Watch West Ham V West Brom Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 28 -December 2013
Watch West Ham V West Brom Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 28 -December 2013.West Ham defender James Collins is unlikely to feature after being forced off with a calf injury in the Boxing Day defeat by Arsenal.Watch West Ham V West Brom Live, Watch West Ham V West Brom Live Stream, Watch West Ham V West Brom Free Live Stream, Watch West Ham V West Brom Online, Watch West Ham V West Brom Online Free, West Ham V West Brom Live, West Ham V West Brom live stream Online.
Ravel Morrison is also set to miss out again with a groin injury, while manager Sam Allardyce may recall goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen.
West Brom's Shane Long faces a fitness test on the calf injury that caused him to miss the match with Tottenham.
Fellow striker Victor Anichebe is also a doubt with a groin problem.
MATCH PREVIEW
Claiming that the injury to Andy Carroll has blighted West Ham's season is nothing new but the significance of his absence becomes greater with every defeat.
The year 2013 was supposed to be when the Hammers established themselves back at the highest level as they look forward to becoming tenants at the Olympic Stadium.
However, the grim reality is that they kick-off their final match of the year the wrong side of the relegation line and hoping a financial splurge in January might help them out of trouble. But, as recent history has shown, such a tactic doesn't always work.
Arsenal were there for the taking after West Ham took the lead on Boxing Day and for a fleeting 15 minutes or so Sam Allardyce's men seemed to have regained the flair and passion backed by a raucous crowd which has caused the big clubs so many problems in recent years. But the moment passed and they appear to be in big trouble.
In fairness, any club in the bottom half of the table may be nervously looking over their shoulders at the moment. West Brom have won at Manchester United and drawn with Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham but didn't do well enough against the rest to keep Steve Clarke in a job.
Former Real Betis coach Pepe Mel is one of the names being linked with a post which has seen a high turnover of decent managers in recent years. Tony Mowbray and Gary Megson are the only men to have completed two full seasons at The Hawthorns since Ron Atkinson made his name there in the 1970s.
Both of these clubs might consider their squads to be too good to go down but that's a dangerous assumption to make this season.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
West Brom have only won one of the last nine Premier League meetings (W1, D4, L4).
West Ham and West Brom have had a different manager in charge for each of their five previous Premier League meetings at Upton Park. Sam Allardyce will be the first manager to break that run.
Four of the last five matches in the league have been drawn.
West Ham
West Ham have won just one of their last 11 league matches.
They have scored nine goals in nine home matches this season and just 15 in 18 league games.
Carlton Cole has scored three league goals, one more than in 27 games last season.
They kept six clean sheets in their opening 10 league matches of the season but have conceded three or more goals in five of their last eight games.
West Brom
West Brom are without a win in eight matches.
They have now gone eight Premier League games without a clean sheet, the longest current such run in the division, along with Tottenham.
The Baggies have won only one of their last 11 Premier League away games (D5, L5).
Ravel Morrison is also set to miss out again with a groin injury, while manager Sam Allardyce may recall goalkeeper Jussi Jaaskelainen.
West Brom's Shane Long faces a fitness test on the calf injury that caused him to miss the match with Tottenham.
Fellow striker Victor Anichebe is also a doubt with a groin problem.
MATCH PREVIEW
Claiming that the injury to Andy Carroll has blighted West Ham's season is nothing new but the significance of his absence becomes greater with every defeat.
The year 2013 was supposed to be when the Hammers established themselves back at the highest level as they look forward to becoming tenants at the Olympic Stadium.
However, the grim reality is that they kick-off their final match of the year the wrong side of the relegation line and hoping a financial splurge in January might help them out of trouble. But, as recent history has shown, such a tactic doesn't always work.
Arsenal were there for the taking after West Ham took the lead on Boxing Day and for a fleeting 15 minutes or so Sam Allardyce's men seemed to have regained the flair and passion backed by a raucous crowd which has caused the big clubs so many problems in recent years. But the moment passed and they appear to be in big trouble.
In fairness, any club in the bottom half of the table may be nervously looking over their shoulders at the moment. West Brom have won at Manchester United and drawn with Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham but didn't do well enough against the rest to keep Steve Clarke in a job.
Former Real Betis coach Pepe Mel is one of the names being linked with a post which has seen a high turnover of decent managers in recent years. Tony Mowbray and Gary Megson are the only men to have completed two full seasons at The Hawthorns since Ron Atkinson made his name there in the 1970s.
Both of these clubs might consider their squads to be too good to go down but that's a dangerous assumption to make this season.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
West Brom have only won one of the last nine Premier League meetings (W1, D4, L4).
West Ham and West Brom have had a different manager in charge for each of their five previous Premier League meetings at Upton Park. Sam Allardyce will be the first manager to break that run.
Four of the last five matches in the league have been drawn.
West Ham
West Ham have won just one of their last 11 league matches.
They have scored nine goals in nine home matches this season and just 15 in 18 league games.
Carlton Cole has scored three league goals, one more than in 27 games last season.
They kept six clean sheets in their opening 10 league matches of the season but have conceded three or more goals in five of their last eight games.
West Brom
West Brom are without a win in eight matches.
They have now gone eight Premier League games without a clean sheet, the longest current such run in the division, along with Tottenham.
The Baggies have won only one of their last 11 Premier League away games (D5, L5).
Watch Fulham V Man City Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 21 -December 2013
Watch Fulham V Man City Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 21 -December 2013.Fulham defender Fernando Amorebieta is a doubt with a hamstring injury.
Captain Brede Hangeland and Hugo Rodallega also remain out with a sciatic nerve problem and groin injury respectively.Watch Fulham V Man City Live, Watch Fulham V Man City Live Stream, Watch Fulham V Man City Free Live Stream, Watch Fulham V Man City Online, Watch Fulham V Man City Online Free, Fulham V Man City Live, Fulham V Man City live stream Online.
Manchester City right-back Pablo Zabaleta misses out after limping off in midweek with a hamstring injury.
Edin Dzeko, who scored twice in midweek, is in line to start up front with Sergio Aguero out with a calf injury.
MATCH PREVIEW
Manchester City's patchy away form this season, which includes four defeats, is enough to give struggling Fulham a glimmer of hope as they prepare for the weekend, but their own defensive frailties could be ruthlessly exposed here if they're not careful.
While City were sticking six past Arsenal last week, Fulham were conceding four on Merseyside for the second time in just over a month with impressive Everton matching Liverpool goal for goal.
Manuel Pellegrini's team have momentum going into this weekend too. After winning at Bayern Munich, and then thrashing Arsenal in the Premier League, they then comfortably beat Leicester away in the Capital One Cup - all in the space of eight days.
Fulham on the other hand, are still getting used to a new manager, Rene Meulensteen, and have lost seven of the last eight in the league. They've also conceded a Premier League high 30 goals so far, which is twice as many as they've scored at the other end.
Not surprisingly, goals haven't been a problem overall for City with so much attacking talent to choose from.
Edin Dzeko is one of those who's had to be patient this season while Sergio Aguero's partnership with Alvaro Negredo has flourished. The Bosnian striker will be hoping to take centre stage over the next few weeks while Aguero recovers from a calf injury and Fulham seems as likely a place as any.
Dzeko scored the winning goal in this fixture last season and his goal-scoring record for City has been much better on the road than at home. Thirty-one of the 49 goals he has scored for the club have come away, with just 18 at the Etihad.
City made a big splash with their win over the leaders Arsenal last week and deservedly so, but results like that might not lead to much if they can't back it up in games like this one.
Fulham, who are in the relegation zone, were worth a 2-0 win over Aston Villa in their last home game, but it was only their second success in eight at the Cottage in the league this season.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
City are looking for a fourth consecutive win over Fulham.
Fulham have failed to beat Manchester City on any of the last seven occasions that they have hosted them (D3, L4).
Fulham
Fulham have lost seven of their last eight league matches.
They have conceded twice as many league goals as they have scored (30:15). No team has conceded more in this season's top flight.
Fulham have lost all nine times that they have played a team in the top half this season.
Man City
Man City have won four of their last five Premier League matches.
City's goal-scoring average in the league away from home is 1.50 goals per game, as opposed to 4.37 goals per game at the City of Manchester Stadium.
But they have only won half of their eight games against teams in the bottom half of the table (W4, D1, L3).
Captain Brede Hangeland and Hugo Rodallega also remain out with a sciatic nerve problem and groin injury respectively.Watch Fulham V Man City Live, Watch Fulham V Man City Live Stream, Watch Fulham V Man City Free Live Stream, Watch Fulham V Man City Online, Watch Fulham V Man City Online Free, Fulham V Man City Live, Fulham V Man City live stream Online.
Manchester City right-back Pablo Zabaleta misses out after limping off in midweek with a hamstring injury.
Edin Dzeko, who scored twice in midweek, is in line to start up front with Sergio Aguero out with a calf injury.
MATCH PREVIEW
Manchester City's patchy away form this season, which includes four defeats, is enough to give struggling Fulham a glimmer of hope as they prepare for the weekend, but their own defensive frailties could be ruthlessly exposed here if they're not careful.
While City were sticking six past Arsenal last week, Fulham were conceding four on Merseyside for the second time in just over a month with impressive Everton matching Liverpool goal for goal.
Manuel Pellegrini's team have momentum going into this weekend too. After winning at Bayern Munich, and then thrashing Arsenal in the Premier League, they then comfortably beat Leicester away in the Capital One Cup - all in the space of eight days.
Fulham on the other hand, are still getting used to a new manager, Rene Meulensteen, and have lost seven of the last eight in the league. They've also conceded a Premier League high 30 goals so far, which is twice as many as they've scored at the other end.
Not surprisingly, goals haven't been a problem overall for City with so much attacking talent to choose from.
Edin Dzeko is one of those who's had to be patient this season while Sergio Aguero's partnership with Alvaro Negredo has flourished. The Bosnian striker will be hoping to take centre stage over the next few weeks while Aguero recovers from a calf injury and Fulham seems as likely a place as any.
Dzeko scored the winning goal in this fixture last season and his goal-scoring record for City has been much better on the road than at home. Thirty-one of the 49 goals he has scored for the club have come away, with just 18 at the Etihad.
City made a big splash with their win over the leaders Arsenal last week and deservedly so, but results like that might not lead to much if they can't back it up in games like this one.
Fulham, who are in the relegation zone, were worth a 2-0 win over Aston Villa in their last home game, but it was only their second success in eight at the Cottage in the league this season.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
City are looking for a fourth consecutive win over Fulham.
Fulham have failed to beat Manchester City on any of the last seven occasions that they have hosted them (D3, L4).
Fulham
Fulham have lost seven of their last eight league matches.
They have conceded twice as many league goals as they have scored (30:15). No team has conceded more in this season's top flight.
Fulham have lost all nine times that they have played a team in the top half this season.
Man City
Man City have won four of their last five Premier League matches.
City's goal-scoring average in the league away from home is 1.50 goals per game, as opposed to 4.37 goals per game at the City of Manchester Stadium.
But they have only won half of their eight games against teams in the bottom half of the table (W4, D1, L3).
Watch Crystal Palace V Newcastle Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 21 -December 2013
Watch Crystal Palace V Newcastle Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 21 -December 2013.Crystal Palace continue to struggle with injuries with Kagisho Dikgacoi, Stuart O'Keefe and Jonny Williams all facing late fitness tests.
But Dean Moxey is fit again after missing last weekend's defeat at Chelsea with a hamstring injury.Watch Crystal Palace V Newcastle Live, Watch Crystal Palace V Newcastle Live Stream, Watch Crystal Palace V Newcastle Free Live Stream, Watch Crystal Palace V Newcastle Online, Watch Crystal Palace V Newcastle Online Free, Crystal Palace V Newcastle Live, Crystal Palace V Newcastle live stream Online.
Newcastle midfielder Yohan Cabaye will return after a one-match ban.
With the exception of long-term absentee Ryan Taylor, Magpies manager Alan Pardew has a full-strength squad to choose from.
MATCH PREVIEW
Alan Pardew will forever be a Crystal Palace legend, thanks to his winning goal in the amazing FA Cup semi-final victory over Liverpool at Villa Park back in 1990.
That is a golden memory for Eagles fans. Indeed, one Palace-supporting friend of mine says it is one of his three best ever moments watching his team.
The Newcastle manager brings his current team to his former club with the Magpies having won five of their last seven, but Crystal Palace will certainly not be the pushover that they may have been earlier in the campaign.
Tony Pulis has had an enormous impact since arriving at Selhurst Park, and a third successive home win could - depending on other results - see them move out of the relegation zone.
Newcastle's victory at Manchester United a fortnight ago was their fourth away success in the league this season, having also won at Aston Villa, Cardiff and Tottenham, and they will start this match as favourites.
For the visitors, much will be expected from Marouane Chamakh, with the Moroccan international having scored in Palace's last three matches, which has caused many pundits to have to revise their opinion of the striker.
Palace's total of 11 goals is the lowest in the Premier League this season, while Newcastle have only failed to find the net in three of their 16 league fixtures so far, and I've got a feeling that both teams will score this weekend.
As to how many, I'll leave that for others to estimate.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Newcastle have won five of the last six meetings with Palace in all competitions (W5, D1). Palace haven't even scored in any of the last five.
Palace have lost the last four times they have hosted Newcastle. Their last victory over the Magpies at home was in January 1984 in the old Division Two, when they won 3-1.
Crystal Palace
After victories over West Ham and Cardiff, Crystal Palace are looking for a third consecutive home win.
Palace have scored just 11 league goals this season, the lowest tally in the top flight.
Palace have been shown fewer yellow cards than any other Premier League side this season (16).
Marouane Chamakh has scored in his last three Premier League games.
Newcastle United
Newcastle have won five out of their last seven league matches (W5, D1, L1).
United have won four and lost four of their eight away league games this season - they beat Man Utd in their last away fixture.
Newcastle's total of 27 points from 16 games is the same as they managed in 2011-12 when they eventually finished fifth.
Twenty of Newcastle's 21 Premier League goals this season have been scored by Frenchmen.
But Dean Moxey is fit again after missing last weekend's defeat at Chelsea with a hamstring injury.Watch Crystal Palace V Newcastle Live, Watch Crystal Palace V Newcastle Live Stream, Watch Crystal Palace V Newcastle Free Live Stream, Watch Crystal Palace V Newcastle Online, Watch Crystal Palace V Newcastle Online Free, Crystal Palace V Newcastle Live, Crystal Palace V Newcastle live stream Online.
Newcastle midfielder Yohan Cabaye will return after a one-match ban.
With the exception of long-term absentee Ryan Taylor, Magpies manager Alan Pardew has a full-strength squad to choose from.
MATCH PREVIEW
Alan Pardew will forever be a Crystal Palace legend, thanks to his winning goal in the amazing FA Cup semi-final victory over Liverpool at Villa Park back in 1990.
That is a golden memory for Eagles fans. Indeed, one Palace-supporting friend of mine says it is one of his three best ever moments watching his team.
The Newcastle manager brings his current team to his former club with the Magpies having won five of their last seven, but Crystal Palace will certainly not be the pushover that they may have been earlier in the campaign.
Tony Pulis has had an enormous impact since arriving at Selhurst Park, and a third successive home win could - depending on other results - see them move out of the relegation zone.
Newcastle's victory at Manchester United a fortnight ago was their fourth away success in the league this season, having also won at Aston Villa, Cardiff and Tottenham, and they will start this match as favourites.
For the visitors, much will be expected from Marouane Chamakh, with the Moroccan international having scored in Palace's last three matches, which has caused many pundits to have to revise their opinion of the striker.
Palace's total of 11 goals is the lowest in the Premier League this season, while Newcastle have only failed to find the net in three of their 16 league fixtures so far, and I've got a feeling that both teams will score this weekend.
As to how many, I'll leave that for others to estimate.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Newcastle have won five of the last six meetings with Palace in all competitions (W5, D1). Palace haven't even scored in any of the last five.
Palace have lost the last four times they have hosted Newcastle. Their last victory over the Magpies at home was in January 1984 in the old Division Two, when they won 3-1.
Crystal Palace
After victories over West Ham and Cardiff, Crystal Palace are looking for a third consecutive home win.
Palace have scored just 11 league goals this season, the lowest tally in the top flight.
Palace have been shown fewer yellow cards than any other Premier League side this season (16).
Marouane Chamakh has scored in his last three Premier League games.
Newcastle United
Newcastle have won five out of their last seven league matches (W5, D1, L1).
United have won four and lost four of their eight away league games this season - they beat Man Utd in their last away fixture.
Newcastle's total of 27 points from 16 games is the same as they managed in 2011-12 when they eventually finished fifth.
Twenty of Newcastle's 21 Premier League goals this season have been scored by Frenchmen.
Watch Liverpool V Cardiff Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 21 -December 2013
Watch Liverpool V Cardiff Live Stream Barclays Premier League Match 21 -December 2013. Liverpool are still without captain Steven Gerrard, who will not be fit to return to the new year because of his hamstring injury.
Manager Brendan Rodgers is also missing striker Daniel Sturridge and defender Jose Enrique.Watch Liverpool V Cardiff Live, Watch Liverpool V Cardiff Live Stream, Watch Liverpool V Cardiff Free Live Stream, Watch Liverpool V Cardiff Online, Watch Liverpool V Cardiff Online Free, Liverpool V Cardiff Live, Liverpool V Cardiff live stream Online.
Cardiff await news on whether ex-Liverpool striker Craig Bellamy will be fit to face his former club.
Aside from that, Bluebirds manager Malky Mackay has a fully fit squad to select from.
MATCH PREVIEW
Meetings between Cardiff and Liverpool don't come along too often. This will be the first since the Welsh club were beaten in the League Cup final of 2012 by virtue of a penalty shoot-out in which only half of the 10 kicks were converted.
That was at Wembley of course, but Cardiff's last visit to Anfield also finished in defeat - 2-1 - also in the League Cup in 2007. You have to go back another 48 years for the next most recent clash, which was surely the most significant of all.
It was 19 December 1959, and a Liverpool team containing boot room legend-to-be Ronnie Moran, future Chelsea boss Bobby Campbell and later World Cup winner Roger Hunt were beaten 4-0 in a Division Two fixture by a Cardiff side heading for promotion that season and helped at Anfield that day by two goals from former Arsenal striker Derek "Tappy" Tapscott
This is all very interesting, but what made this game really significant is that it was the first in which Liverpool were managed by Bill Shankly.
There are quite a few people wondering whether this game, 54 years later almost to the day, might not be the last in which Cardiff are managed by Malky Mackay.
Mackay says he won't quit, and why should he, but it seems that his relationship with majority shareholder Vincent Tan is one very small step from being untenable. Tan, through chief executive Simon Lim, has repeated his assertion that Mackay overspent his summer transfer budget, and that as a result he'll get "not a single penny" to spend in January.
Given that Iain Moody was sacked as head of recruitment for this supposed misdemeanour, it seems a bit petty to have raised it again with the blame now being firmly placed at Mackay's door.
If Tan sacks Mackay, and who'd bet against it, he guarantees himself a storm of protest from fans already being peddled shirts that are red instead of blue. He guarantees himself a major headache in finding a credible replacement willing to work under his regime, and he might just guarantee himself a swift return to the Championship. Like Moody, Mackay would not be out of work for long.
Players, managers and owners tend to come and go; some all too quickly and some not quickly enough, but Cardiff's magnificently vocal supporters deserve better.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Cardiff have won on eight of their 15 visits to play at Anfield in all competitions.
Their last meeting in any competition was the League Cup final in 2012. Liverpool won on penalties after the match finished 2-2 following extra time.
Cardiff have won twice as many matches as Liverpool in their previous 30 encounters. Cardiff have won 18 times and Liverpool nine, with three draws.
Liverpool
Luis Suarez has scored 17 goals in 11 league games this season, which is more than 10 of the 20 teams in the Premier League.
Liverpool have scored 25 Premier League goals before half-time this season, more than any other side.
The Reds have scored 14 goals in their last three league games and have scored 79 goals in 2013 - four more than Man City.
They have scored three or more goals in three consecutive top-flight league matches for the first time for 26 years, when they set a club record of four matches with four or more goals in 1987.
Liverpool have had the most goals scored by English players in the league this season (16).
Cardiff
The Bluebirds have won four matches this season in the Premier League, and they have all been by a one-goal margin.
They have failed to score a first-half goal in 13 Premier League matches this season - the joint-most in the top flight.
Peter Whittingham's 65th-minute goal against West Brom last weekend ended a run of 335 minutes in the Premier League without one.
Manager Brendan Rodgers is also missing striker Daniel Sturridge and defender Jose Enrique.Watch Liverpool V Cardiff Live, Watch Liverpool V Cardiff Live Stream, Watch Liverpool V Cardiff Free Live Stream, Watch Liverpool V Cardiff Online, Watch Liverpool V Cardiff Online Free, Liverpool V Cardiff Live, Liverpool V Cardiff live stream Online.
Cardiff await news on whether ex-Liverpool striker Craig Bellamy will be fit to face his former club.
Aside from that, Bluebirds manager Malky Mackay has a fully fit squad to select from.
MATCH PREVIEW
Meetings between Cardiff and Liverpool don't come along too often. This will be the first since the Welsh club were beaten in the League Cup final of 2012 by virtue of a penalty shoot-out in which only half of the 10 kicks were converted.
That was at Wembley of course, but Cardiff's last visit to Anfield also finished in defeat - 2-1 - also in the League Cup in 2007. You have to go back another 48 years for the next most recent clash, which was surely the most significant of all.
It was 19 December 1959, and a Liverpool team containing boot room legend-to-be Ronnie Moran, future Chelsea boss Bobby Campbell and later World Cup winner Roger Hunt were beaten 4-0 in a Division Two fixture by a Cardiff side heading for promotion that season and helped at Anfield that day by two goals from former Arsenal striker Derek "Tappy" Tapscott
This is all very interesting, but what made this game really significant is that it was the first in which Liverpool were managed by Bill Shankly.
There are quite a few people wondering whether this game, 54 years later almost to the day, might not be the last in which Cardiff are managed by Malky Mackay.
Mackay says he won't quit, and why should he, but it seems that his relationship with majority shareholder Vincent Tan is one very small step from being untenable. Tan, through chief executive Simon Lim, has repeated his assertion that Mackay overspent his summer transfer budget, and that as a result he'll get "not a single penny" to spend in January.
Given that Iain Moody was sacked as head of recruitment for this supposed misdemeanour, it seems a bit petty to have raised it again with the blame now being firmly placed at Mackay's door.
If Tan sacks Mackay, and who'd bet against it, he guarantees himself a storm of protest from fans already being peddled shirts that are red instead of blue. He guarantees himself a major headache in finding a credible replacement willing to work under his regime, and he might just guarantee himself a swift return to the Championship. Like Moody, Mackay would not be out of work for long.
Players, managers and owners tend to come and go; some all too quickly and some not quickly enough, but Cardiff's magnificently vocal supporters deserve better.
MATCH FACTS
Head-to-head
Cardiff have won on eight of their 15 visits to play at Anfield in all competitions.
Their last meeting in any competition was the League Cup final in 2012. Liverpool won on penalties after the match finished 2-2 following extra time.
Cardiff have won twice as many matches as Liverpool in their previous 30 encounters. Cardiff have won 18 times and Liverpool nine, with three draws.
Liverpool
Luis Suarez has scored 17 goals in 11 league games this season, which is more than 10 of the 20 teams in the Premier League.
Liverpool have scored 25 Premier League goals before half-time this season, more than any other side.
The Reds have scored 14 goals in their last three league games and have scored 79 goals in 2013 - four more than Man City.
They have scored three or more goals in three consecutive top-flight league matches for the first time for 26 years, when they set a club record of four matches with four or more goals in 1987.
Liverpool have had the most goals scored by English players in the league this season (16).
Cardiff
The Bluebirds have won four matches this season in the Premier League, and they have all been by a one-goal margin.
They have failed to score a first-half goal in 13 Premier League matches this season - the joint-most in the top flight.
Peter Whittingham's 65th-minute goal against West Brom last weekend ended a run of 335 minutes in the Premier League without one.
Watch QPR V Leicester Live Stream Sky Bet Championship Match 21 -December 2013
Watch QPR V Leicester Live Stream Sky Bet Championship Match 21 -December 2013
.Yossi Benayoun could make his QPR debut against promotion chasing Leicester after signing a short-term contractWatch QPR V Leicester Live, Watch QPR V Leicester Live Stream, Watch QPR V Leicester Free Live Stream, Watch QPR V Leicester Online, Watch QPR V Leicester Online Free, QPR V Leicester Live, QPR V Leicester live stream Online.
Midfielder Alejandro Faurlin (cruciate) and striker Bobby Zamora (knee) are long-term absentees but Skipper Clint Hill is available after illness.
Nigel Pearson has no new injury concerns after the Capital One Cup defeat to Manchester City in midweek.
Strikers Chris Wood (hamstring) and Tom Hopper (shin) and defender Sean St. Ledger (groin) are long term absentees.
MATCH FACTS
Head To Head
• This is the 56th meeting between QPR and Leicester in all competitions, QPR have won 25, Leicester 20 and there have been 10 draws.
• Only one of their last 12 meetings at Loftus Road has ended in a draw.
• The clubs were last in the same division in 2010-11 when QPR completed a Championship double over Leicester without conceding a goal. Rangers won 1-0 at home after a 2-0 win at Leicester.
QPR
• Championship Leaders QPR have collected 26 points from a possible 30 at Loftus Road, this is the most home points collected in the division this season.
• Only Brighton and Blackburn have left Championship matches at Loftus Road with a point, both achieving goalless draws.
• In nine home Championship matches QPR have kept seven clean sheets and conceded just two home goals- against Derby and Sheffield Wednesday.
• They have the meanest home defence amongst all 92 Premier and Football League clubs.
• QPR have not conceded a goal in their last three matches home or away.
• QPR have scored 24 goals in the Championship this season - fewer than any other team in the top eight.
Leicester City
• Leicester went top of the table on 30 November but have not won a Championship match since.
• Their current run of three matches without a run is their longest winless run of the season.
• Leicester have played 12 away matches in all competitions this season, only one of which has ended in a draw.
• They have scored in all but one of their 12 away matches in all competitions - only Doncaster have prevented them from scoring on the road.
.Yossi Benayoun could make his QPR debut against promotion chasing Leicester after signing a short-term contractWatch QPR V Leicester Live, Watch QPR V Leicester Live Stream, Watch QPR V Leicester Free Live Stream, Watch QPR V Leicester Online, Watch QPR V Leicester Online Free, QPR V Leicester Live, QPR V Leicester live stream Online.
Midfielder Alejandro Faurlin (cruciate) and striker Bobby Zamora (knee) are long-term absentees but Skipper Clint Hill is available after illness.
Nigel Pearson has no new injury concerns after the Capital One Cup defeat to Manchester City in midweek.
Strikers Chris Wood (hamstring) and Tom Hopper (shin) and defender Sean St. Ledger (groin) are long term absentees.
MATCH FACTS
Head To Head
• This is the 56th meeting between QPR and Leicester in all competitions, QPR have won 25, Leicester 20 and there have been 10 draws.
• Only one of their last 12 meetings at Loftus Road has ended in a draw.
• The clubs were last in the same division in 2010-11 when QPR completed a Championship double over Leicester without conceding a goal. Rangers won 1-0 at home after a 2-0 win at Leicester.
QPR
• Championship Leaders QPR have collected 26 points from a possible 30 at Loftus Road, this is the most home points collected in the division this season.
• Only Brighton and Blackburn have left Championship matches at Loftus Road with a point, both achieving goalless draws.
• In nine home Championship matches QPR have kept seven clean sheets and conceded just two home goals- against Derby and Sheffield Wednesday.
• They have the meanest home defence amongst all 92 Premier and Football League clubs.
• QPR have not conceded a goal in their last three matches home or away.
• QPR have scored 24 goals in the Championship this season - fewer than any other team in the top eight.
Leicester City
• Leicester went top of the table on 30 November but have not won a Championship match since.
• Their current run of three matches without a run is their longest winless run of the season.
• Leicester have played 12 away matches in all competitions this season, only one of which has ended in a draw.
• They have scored in all but one of their 12 away matches in all competitions - only Doncaster have prevented them from scoring on the road.
Watch Celtic V Hearts Live Stream Scottish Premiership Match 21 -December 2013
Watch Celtic V Hearts Live Stream Scottish Premiership Match 21 -December 2013.Hearts could be without several outfield players as well as reserve goalkeeper Mark Ridgers.
Ryan Stevenson and Gary Oliver are out, while Jamie Walker and Scott Robinson are doubtful.Watch Celtic V Hearts Live, Watch Celtic V Hearts Live Stream, Watch Celtic V Hearts Free Live Stream, Watch Celtic V Hearts Online, Watch Celtic V Hearts Online Free, Celtic V Hearts Live, Celtic V Hearts live stream Online.
Celtic winger James Forrest and midfielder Tom Rogic have returned to training following injuries.
But defenders Mikael Lustig, Steven Mouyokolo and Charlie Mulgrew, plus midfielders Dirk Boerrigter, Dylan McGeouch and Beram Kayal, miss out.
Celtic defender Efe Ambrose: "We know it's going to be more difficult. Because beating them at their home is something they never thought of - but now they'll be more prepared to come to Celtic to get their own back on us.
"But, we just have to do it again, keep the momentum high, keep the spirit high, work harder, because we know this will be a different ball game.
"We want to play and entertain the fans and give them what they want. but at the same time, at Celtic Park we try to give the fans what we want and we will do our best to win the game."
Hearts assistant manager Billy Brown: "We try not to make excuses and we haven't done all season, but things are getting close to the bone.
"Lads who have been involved are still part of the ground staff here, people like Sam Nicholson who played last week, Dale Carrick and boys like Adam King, who is very much in contention for Saturday.
"Liam Smith and the [Angus] Beith were at school last year. But what else can we do?
"Danny Wilson has shin splints, they are pretty sore, but he is soldiering on manfully. Danny is our veteran at 21.
"I have never been involved in a situation like this, but who has?
"This was always liable to happen. I think we have been lucky with injuries in the early part of the season and there was always going to be a time when this was going to kick in.
"We just have to get on with it and do the best we can. The players have done their very best and very rarely have their heads dropped and we can't ask for any more."
Ryan Stevenson and Gary Oliver are out, while Jamie Walker and Scott Robinson are doubtful.Watch Celtic V Hearts Live, Watch Celtic V Hearts Live Stream, Watch Celtic V Hearts Free Live Stream, Watch Celtic V Hearts Online, Watch Celtic V Hearts Online Free, Celtic V Hearts Live, Celtic V Hearts live stream Online.
Celtic winger James Forrest and midfielder Tom Rogic have returned to training following injuries.
But defenders Mikael Lustig, Steven Mouyokolo and Charlie Mulgrew, plus midfielders Dirk Boerrigter, Dylan McGeouch and Beram Kayal, miss out.
Celtic defender Efe Ambrose: "We know it's going to be more difficult. Because beating them at their home is something they never thought of - but now they'll be more prepared to come to Celtic to get their own back on us.
"But, we just have to do it again, keep the momentum high, keep the spirit high, work harder, because we know this will be a different ball game.
"We want to play and entertain the fans and give them what they want. but at the same time, at Celtic Park we try to give the fans what we want and we will do our best to win the game."
Hearts assistant manager Billy Brown: "We try not to make excuses and we haven't done all season, but things are getting close to the bone.
"Lads who have been involved are still part of the ground staff here, people like Sam Nicholson who played last week, Dale Carrick and boys like Adam King, who is very much in contention for Saturday.
"Liam Smith and the [Angus] Beith were at school last year. But what else can we do?
"Danny Wilson has shin splints, they are pretty sore, but he is soldiering on manfully. Danny is our veteran at 21.
"I have never been involved in a situation like this, but who has?
"This was always liable to happen. I think we have been lucky with injuries in the early part of the season and there was always going to be a time when this was going to kick in.
"We just have to get on with it and do the best we can. The players have done their very best and very rarely have their heads dropped and we can't ask for any more."
Watch FK Austria Vienna V Zenit St Petersburg Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 11 -December 2013
Watch FK Austria Vienna V Zenit St Petersburg Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 11 -December 2013.Vienna are already destined to finish bottom of the group, but will be keen to end their maiden Champions League campaign on a high by claiming a first victory.Watch FK Austria Vienna V Zenit St Petersburg Live, Watch FK Austria Vienna V Zenit St Petersburg Live Stream, Watch FK Austria Vienna V Zenit St Petersburg Free Live Stream, Watch FK Austria Vienna V Zenit St Petersburg Online, Watch FK Austria Vienna V Zenit St Petersburg Online Free, FK Austria Vienna V Zenit St Petersburg Live, FK Austria Vienna V Zenit St Petersburg live stream Online.
One of their two points to date was collected at Zenit on October 1, in a goalless draw that saw Axel Witsel sent off for the hosts.
In avoiding defeat at the Petrovsky Stadium, Vienna claimed the first point by an Austrian side in the Champions League since Sturm Graz defeated Panathinaikos in 2001.
They then drew at Porto last time out, where Roman Kienast's opener was cancelled out by Jackson Martinez.
Zenit have been held to draws in all three of their home group-stage fixtures this season, but remain on course to qualify having won away at Porto on matchday three.
The Russian club can take confidence from Vienna's dismal recent form, which has seen Nenad Bjelica's men win only four of 15 matches across all competitions.
Struggling Admira Wacker Modling held the reigning Austrian Bundesliga champions to a 2-2 draw on Saturday.
However, Zenit have also struggled for victories in recent weeks, with a 2-1 win over Ural on Friday representing their first success in eight games.
Vienna could hand a start to Marko Stankovic, who has made two substitute appearances since spending six weeks on the sidelines with a muscular problem.
Anatoliy Tymoshchuk could make his 50th Champions League appearance, having represented Bayern Munich and Shakhtar Donetsk prior to linking up with Zenit.
One of their two points to date was collected at Zenit on October 1, in a goalless draw that saw Axel Witsel sent off for the hosts.
In avoiding defeat at the Petrovsky Stadium, Vienna claimed the first point by an Austrian side in the Champions League since Sturm Graz defeated Panathinaikos in 2001.
They then drew at Porto last time out, where Roman Kienast's opener was cancelled out by Jackson Martinez.
Zenit have been held to draws in all three of their home group-stage fixtures this season, but remain on course to qualify having won away at Porto on matchday three.
The Russian club can take confidence from Vienna's dismal recent form, which has seen Nenad Bjelica's men win only four of 15 matches across all competitions.
Struggling Admira Wacker Modling held the reigning Austrian Bundesliga champions to a 2-2 draw on Saturday.
However, Zenit have also struggled for victories in recent weeks, with a 2-1 win over Ural on Friday representing their first success in eight games.
Vienna could hand a start to Marko Stankovic, who has made two substitute appearances since spending six weeks on the sidelines with a muscular problem.
Anatoliy Tymoshchuk could make his 50th Champions League appearance, having represented Bayern Munich and Shakhtar Donetsk prior to linking up with Zenit.
Watch Atlético Madrid V FC Porto Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 11 -December 2013
Watch Atlético Madrid V FC Porto Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 11 -December 2013.The Primera Division's second-placed club have won nine successive games at home since being held to a 1-1 draw by Barcelona in the first leg of the Supercopa de Espana in August.Watch Atlético Madrid V FC Porto Live, Watch Atlético Madrid V FC Porto Live Stream, Watch Atlético Madrid V FC Porto Free Live Stream, Watch Atlético Madrid V FC Porto Online, Watch Atlético Madrid V FC Porto Online Free, Atlético Madrid V FC Porto Live, Atlético Madrid V FC Porto live stream Online.
They have also won 16 of their last 19 fixtures in all competitions, aided by striker Diego Costa, who has netted 15 goals in as many Liga appearances.
Porto, meanwhile, have endured a disappointing Champions League campaign so far. A tally of one point from three home games represents their worst return in the competition.
Porto’s 53-match unbeaten run in their domestic league also came to an end recently, with a 1-0 defeat at Academica on November 30.
The reigning Portuguese champions had won 42 and drawn 11 during their terrific sequence of results.
Both Porto and Atletico enjoyed victories in their most recent domestic fixtures, though, with the former overcoming Braga 2-0 in the league and Diego Simeone's men hammering Sant Andreu 4-0 in the Copa del Rey at the weekend.
Nabil Ghilas recovered from a muscle problem in time to appear on the bench for Porto on Saturday and could feature this time around as Fonseca has a full squad to choose from. Atletico's only absentee is Juanfran, who is serving a one-game ban.
They have also won 16 of their last 19 fixtures in all competitions, aided by striker Diego Costa, who has netted 15 goals in as many Liga appearances.
Porto, meanwhile, have endured a disappointing Champions League campaign so far. A tally of one point from three home games represents their worst return in the competition.
Porto’s 53-match unbeaten run in their domestic league also came to an end recently, with a 1-0 defeat at Academica on November 30.
The reigning Portuguese champions had won 42 and drawn 11 during their terrific sequence of results.
Both Porto and Atletico enjoyed victories in their most recent domestic fixtures, though, with the former overcoming Braga 2-0 in the league and Diego Simeone's men hammering Sant Andreu 4-0 in the Copa del Rey at the weekend.
Nabil Ghilas recovered from a muscle problem in time to appear on the bench for Porto on Saturday and could feature this time around as Fonseca has a full squad to choose from. Atletico's only absentee is Juanfran, who is serving a one-game ban.
Watch Milan V Ajax Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 11 -December 2013
Watch Milan V Ajax Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 11 -December 2013.The Amsterdam outfit came close to a home win against Milan on matchday two, taking a 90th-minute lead through Stefano Denswil before Mario Balotelli equalised from the spot in the fourth minute of stoppage time.Watch Milan V Ajax Live, Watch Milan V Ajax Live Stream, Watch Milan V Ajax Free Live Stream, Watch Milan V Ajax Online, Watch Milan V Ajax Online Free, Milan V Ajax Live, Milan V Ajax live stream Online.
Frank de Boer's men have not won any of their last six away fixtures in the Champions League, dating back to a 2-0 success at Dinamo Zagreb in October 2011, but are unbeaten in their last three matches in Italy.
Milan ended a run of seven games without a win in all competitions when they cruised to a 3-0 win at Celtic last time out, scoring their 600th goal in competition in the process.
After a dismal start to the domestic season, Massimiliano Allegri's side are now unbeaten in four Serie A matches and appear to have turned a corner.
Their Dutch opponents defeated Barcelona 2-1 on matchday five in one of their biggest European results in recent years, and have won their last four matches in the Eredivisie, leaving them second behind Vitesse.
The four-time European Cup winners won 4-0 against NAC Breda in their most recent domestic fixture, and were victorious on their last visit to San Siro, when they ran out 2-0 winners in the 2010-11 Champions League group stages.
Marco Amelia (knee) is expected to be out until the new year, while Mattia De Sciglio (knee), who has made only one appearance since August, is among a number of injury doubts for Milan. Giampaolo Pazzini (knee) is a long-term absentee. Robinho is not expected to be back until the end of the year.
Ajax, meanwhile, are without their captain Siem de Jong and defender Nicolai Boilsen, who have both picked up hamstring injuries. Lerin Duarte also has ankle problems, while Joel Veltman is suspended.
However, they welcome back Icelandic striker Kolbeinn Sigthorsson, who has recovered from an ankle injury he sustained in Iceland's World Cup play-off clash against Croatia.
Frank de Boer's men have not won any of their last six away fixtures in the Champions League, dating back to a 2-0 success at Dinamo Zagreb in October 2011, but are unbeaten in their last three matches in Italy.
Milan ended a run of seven games without a win in all competitions when they cruised to a 3-0 win at Celtic last time out, scoring their 600th goal in competition in the process.
After a dismal start to the domestic season, Massimiliano Allegri's side are now unbeaten in four Serie A matches and appear to have turned a corner.
Their Dutch opponents defeated Barcelona 2-1 on matchday five in one of their biggest European results in recent years, and have won their last four matches in the Eredivisie, leaving them second behind Vitesse.
The four-time European Cup winners won 4-0 against NAC Breda in their most recent domestic fixture, and were victorious on their last visit to San Siro, when they ran out 2-0 winners in the 2010-11 Champions League group stages.
Marco Amelia (knee) is expected to be out until the new year, while Mattia De Sciglio (knee), who has made only one appearance since August, is among a number of injury doubts for Milan. Giampaolo Pazzini (knee) is a long-term absentee. Robinho is not expected to be back until the end of the year.
Ajax, meanwhile, are without their captain Siem de Jong and defender Nicolai Boilsen, who have both picked up hamstring injuries. Lerin Duarte also has ankle problems, while Joel Veltman is suspended.
However, they welcome back Icelandic striker Kolbeinn Sigthorsson, who has recovered from an ankle injury he sustained in Iceland's World Cup play-off clash against Croatia.
Watch Barcelona V Celtic Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 11 -December 2013
Watch Barcelona V Celtic Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 11 -December 2013.Celtic winger James Forrest misses the trip to Barcelona through injury, along with Beram Kayal and Tom Rogic.Watch Barcelona V Celtic Live, Watch Barcelona V Celtic Live Stream, Watch Barcelona V Celtic Free Live Stream, Watch Barcelona V Celtic Online, Watch Barcelona V Celtic Online Free, Barcelona V Celtic Live, Barcelona V Celtic live stream Online.
Full-back Adam Matthews could return to action after a seven-week absence, while skipper Scott Brown is back from a three-game European ban.
Striker Georgios Samaras and midfielder Nir Biton have recovered from illness.
Champions League Group H leaders Barcelona are without forward Lionel Messi, goalkeeper Victor Valdes and midfielder Cesc Fabregas.
Brazil full-back Dani Alves is suspended but Spain midfielders Andres Iniesta and Xavi Hernandez could appear for the hosts after shaking off injury problems.
Celtic captain Scott Brown
Brown is available after the three-match ban that followed a red card at home to Barcelona
Celtic are guaranteed to finish bottom of Group H, but Barcelona need a point to guarantee qualifying for the last 16 as group winners.
"The target is to finish the campaign on a good note," said assistant manager Johan Mjallby.
"It's a chance for players to prove themselves against one of the best teams in the world and take on board even more experience at this level.
"We need to be brave on the ball and try to keep it so we can have a wee bit of a rest, otherwise we are just going to be chasing them for 90 minutes."
The Spanish champions come into the game on the back of a 4-1 win over Cartegena in the Copa del Rey.
Fabregas scored one of the Barca goals and provided the winner when they defeated Celtic in Glasgow in September, but misses out this time through suspension.
That could increase the chances of a return for Xavi, who has had a calf problem, and Iniesta, who has recovered from a hamstring injury, who have now been cleared by the club's medical staff to return to training.
Spain full-back Jordi Alba played 80 minutes of the Spanish Cup game against Cartagena on his return from hamstring and thigh injuries.
Should Celtic win in Barcelona and AC Milan defeat Ajax at the San Siro, the Italians will take over at the top of Group H.
Full-back Adam Matthews could return to action after a seven-week absence, while skipper Scott Brown is back from a three-game European ban.
Striker Georgios Samaras and midfielder Nir Biton have recovered from illness.
Champions League Group H leaders Barcelona are without forward Lionel Messi, goalkeeper Victor Valdes and midfielder Cesc Fabregas.
Brazil full-back Dani Alves is suspended but Spain midfielders Andres Iniesta and Xavi Hernandez could appear for the hosts after shaking off injury problems.
Celtic captain Scott Brown
Brown is available after the three-match ban that followed a red card at home to Barcelona
Celtic are guaranteed to finish bottom of Group H, but Barcelona need a point to guarantee qualifying for the last 16 as group winners.
"The target is to finish the campaign on a good note," said assistant manager Johan Mjallby.
"It's a chance for players to prove themselves against one of the best teams in the world and take on board even more experience at this level.
"We need to be brave on the ball and try to keep it so we can have a wee bit of a rest, otherwise we are just going to be chasing them for 90 minutes."
The Spanish champions come into the game on the back of a 4-1 win over Cartegena in the Copa del Rey.
Fabregas scored one of the Barca goals and provided the winner when they defeated Celtic in Glasgow in September, but misses out this time through suspension.
That could increase the chances of a return for Xavi, who has had a calf problem, and Iniesta, who has recovered from a hamstring injury, who have now been cleared by the club's medical staff to return to training.
Spain full-back Jordi Alba played 80 minutes of the Spanish Cup game against Cartagena on his return from hamstring and thigh injuries.
Should Celtic win in Barcelona and AC Milan defeat Ajax at the San Siro, the Italians will take over at the top of Group H.
Watch Napoli V Arsenal Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 11 -December 2013
Watch Napoli V Arsenal Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 11 -December 2013. Arsenal have no new injury worries for their match at Napoli, where a draw would secure Champions League qualification and top spot in Group F.Watch Napoli V Arsenal Live, Watch Napoli V Arsenal Live Stream, Watch Napoli V Arsenal Free Live Stream, Watch Napoli V Arsenal Online, Watch Napoli V Arsenal Online Free, Napoli V Arsenal Live, Napoli V Arsenal live stream Online.
The Gunners, who beat Napoli 2-0 in October, will again be without Bacary Sagna although the full-back is close to recovering from a hamstring problem.
Napoli will evaluate the fitness of goalkeeper Pepe Reina, who missed Saturday's 3-3 draw against Udinese with a muscle injury.
Midfielder Valon Behrami is doubtful.
The Italian side will be without Slovakia playmaker Marek Hamsik, who has a foot problem.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insists his side will play for victory and feels they may still be knocked out if they are below par, as he looks forward to another meeting with Napoli's former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez.
"I see it as another game we want to win, and that is the only way we can approach the game," he said.
"Benitez has a very big experience, is a very intelligent manager, so I know he will prepare his team well. The only way we can counter that is to be at our best and put in a good performance as an average performance will not be good enough."
"For me the most important thing is to qualify. If we can finish top, it is even better."
Benitez, who won the Champions League with Liverpool in 2005, believes the Gunners have the best man to lead them to their first Premier League crown since 2004.
"In modern football, everyone knows the quality of their rivals," Benitez said. "Arsenal are a very strong side.
"This could be the year they win the Premier League. For me, Wenger is the best coach in the Premier League and knows what his team must do.
"Arsenal will try to control possession and hit us with counter attacks. We have to do our thing, focus on ourselves and not on them."
A draw is only enough for Napoli if Borussia Dortmund, who have a superior head-to-head record, lose at Marseille. If Benitez's side lose, then they will have to settle for third, which will take them into the Europa League.
Arsenal squad: Szczesny, Jenkinson, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs, Flamini, Wilshere, Ramsey, Ozil, Walcott, Giroud, Fabianski, Vermaelen, Bendtner, Monreal, Cazorla, Rosicky, Arteta.
The Gunners, who beat Napoli 2-0 in October, will again be without Bacary Sagna although the full-back is close to recovering from a hamstring problem.
Napoli will evaluate the fitness of goalkeeper Pepe Reina, who missed Saturday's 3-3 draw against Udinese with a muscle injury.
Midfielder Valon Behrami is doubtful.
The Italian side will be without Slovakia playmaker Marek Hamsik, who has a foot problem.
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insists his side will play for victory and feels they may still be knocked out if they are below par, as he looks forward to another meeting with Napoli's former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez.
"I see it as another game we want to win, and that is the only way we can approach the game," he said.
"Benitez has a very big experience, is a very intelligent manager, so I know he will prepare his team well. The only way we can counter that is to be at our best and put in a good performance as an average performance will not be good enough."
"For me the most important thing is to qualify. If we can finish top, it is even better."
Benitez, who won the Champions League with Liverpool in 2005, believes the Gunners have the best man to lead them to their first Premier League crown since 2004.
"In modern football, everyone knows the quality of their rivals," Benitez said. "Arsenal are a very strong side.
"This could be the year they win the Premier League. For me, Wenger is the best coach in the Premier League and knows what his team must do.
"Arsenal will try to control possession and hit us with counter attacks. We have to do our thing, focus on ourselves and not on them."
A draw is only enough for Napoli if Borussia Dortmund, who have a superior head-to-head record, lose at Marseille. If Benitez's side lose, then they will have to settle for third, which will take them into the Europa League.
Arsenal squad: Szczesny, Jenkinson, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs, Flamini, Wilshere, Ramsey, Ozil, Walcott, Giroud, Fabianski, Vermaelen, Bendtner, Monreal, Cazorla, Rosicky, Arteta.
Watch FC Schalke 04 V Basel Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 11 -December 2013
Watch FC Schalke 04 V Basel Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 11 -December 2013.Basel, by contrast, climbed into second with a 1-0 victory over group leaders Chelsea and head into this pivotal encounter one point ahead of their hosts.Watch FC Schalke 04 V Basel Live, Watch FC Schalke 04 V Basel Live Stream, Watch FC Schalke 04 V Basel Free Live Stream, Watch FC Schalke 04 V Basel Online, Watch FC Schalke 04 V Basel Online Free, FC Schalke 04 V Basel Live, FC Schalke 04 V Basel live stream Online.
Both teams could still overhaul Chelsea, who welcome Steaua to Stamford Bridge, to win the group, yet Basel need only a point to be sure of qualifying.
History is against the Swiss outfit, however, as they have won just three times in 14 attempts against Bundesliga opposition in Uefa competition. Basel's last visit to Germany in the Champions League ended in humiliation, as Bayern Munich overturned a 1-0 first-leg defeat in the 2011-12 round of 16 with a thumping 7-0 victory.
Schalke can also take heart from claiming victory against Basel on October 1, with a fine half-volley from Julian Draxler settling that encounter.
Jens Keller's charges are looking to reach the knockout stages for the fourth time in seven campaigns, having topped their group for the last two seasons.
Midfielder Jermaine Jones is suspended after collecting three yellow cards, while Dennis Aogo, Marco Hoger and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar are all sidelined with knee injuries.
Schalke will expect Jefferson Farfan to provide their main attacking threat. The Peru international has scored five goals in six games since returning from six weeks out with a groin injury.
Swiss Super League leaders Basel have no fresh injury worries and are unbeaten since August, with the exception of Schalke's victory in the reverse meeting.
However, four of Basel's last five domestic games have ended all-square, including a 1-1 draw with Grasshopper on Saturday.
Both teams could still overhaul Chelsea, who welcome Steaua to Stamford Bridge, to win the group, yet Basel need only a point to be sure of qualifying.
History is against the Swiss outfit, however, as they have won just three times in 14 attempts against Bundesliga opposition in Uefa competition. Basel's last visit to Germany in the Champions League ended in humiliation, as Bayern Munich overturned a 1-0 first-leg defeat in the 2011-12 round of 16 with a thumping 7-0 victory.
Schalke can also take heart from claiming victory against Basel on October 1, with a fine half-volley from Julian Draxler settling that encounter.
Jens Keller's charges are looking to reach the knockout stages for the fourth time in seven campaigns, having topped their group for the last two seasons.
Midfielder Jermaine Jones is suspended after collecting three yellow cards, while Dennis Aogo, Marco Hoger and Klaas-Jan Huntelaar are all sidelined with knee injuries.
Schalke will expect Jefferson Farfan to provide their main attacking threat. The Peru international has scored five goals in six games since returning from six weeks out with a groin injury.
Swiss Super League leaders Basel have no fresh injury worries and are unbeaten since August, with the exception of Schalke's victory in the reverse meeting.
However, four of Basel's last five domestic games have ended all-square, including a 1-1 draw with Grasshopper on Saturday.
Watch Chelsea V Steaua Bucharest Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 11 -December 2013
Watch Chelsea V Steaua Bucharest Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 11 -December 2013. Left-back Ashley Cole will return for Chelsea in Wednesday's Champions League Group E clash with Steaua Bucharest.Watch Chelsea V Steaua Bucharest Live, Watch Chelsea V Steaua Bucharest Live Stream, Watch Chelsea V Steaua Bucharest Free Live Stream, Watch Chelsea V Steaua Bucharest Online, Watch Chelsea V Steaua Bucharest Online Free, Chelsea V Steaua Bucharest Live, Chelsea V Steaua Bucharest live stream Online.
Cole has not played for Chelsea since the loss at Newcastle on 2 November, suffering a rib injury and losing his place to right-back Cesar Azpilicueta.
Defender David Luiz and midfielder Oscar are fit to return after knee injuries, but Marco van Ginkel is out.
Chelsea have qualified for the knockout stages but need a win to guarantee top spot in their group.
Cole, 32, is out of contract at the end of this season but manager Jose Mourinho believes he will earn an extension to his deal.
"Naturally he will get his contract because he's a valuable player for us," Mourinho said.
"Even if you are not playing every game and you are not a first-choice player, like he was always, I don't think sometimes it means that you are not well, you are not deserving of a new contract.
"I feel he's fine. And I think tomorrow he's going to show that he's fine. He starts tomorrow."
Manager Jose Mourinho said his Chelsea side were "in trouble" after they gave up a 1-0 lead in the weekend's 3-2 away defeat against Stoke City.
And he has played down his side's chances of winning this season's Champions League, having previously won the competition with Porto and Inter Milan.
He said: "I think our chances this season, which is my first season (back) are not comparable with the chances of other clubs.
"Other clubs have stability in the squad - which we don't have - and the evolution of the team to be considered favourites to win the competition. But we have reached the last 16 and if we reach the quarter-finals... I always used to say that every team in the quarter-finals has a chance to win it."
"My analysis of the situation is we are not favourites to win it. Bayern Munich are the favourites. They have unbelievable stability. Barcelona and Real Madrid too I will say, clearly in terms of potential, are clearly in front."
Cole has not played for Chelsea since the loss at Newcastle on 2 November, suffering a rib injury and losing his place to right-back Cesar Azpilicueta.
Defender David Luiz and midfielder Oscar are fit to return after knee injuries, but Marco van Ginkel is out.
Chelsea have qualified for the knockout stages but need a win to guarantee top spot in their group.
Cole, 32, is out of contract at the end of this season but manager Jose Mourinho believes he will earn an extension to his deal.
"Naturally he will get his contract because he's a valuable player for us," Mourinho said.
"Even if you are not playing every game and you are not a first-choice player, like he was always, I don't think sometimes it means that you are not well, you are not deserving of a new contract.
"I feel he's fine. And I think tomorrow he's going to show that he's fine. He starts tomorrow."
Manager Jose Mourinho said his Chelsea side were "in trouble" after they gave up a 1-0 lead in the weekend's 3-2 away defeat against Stoke City.
And he has played down his side's chances of winning this season's Champions League, having previously won the competition with Porto and Inter Milan.
He said: "I think our chances this season, which is my first season (back) are not comparable with the chances of other clubs.
"Other clubs have stability in the squad - which we don't have - and the evolution of the team to be considered favourites to win the competition. But we have reached the last 16 and if we reach the quarter-finals... I always used to say that every team in the quarter-finals has a chance to win it."
"My analysis of the situation is we are not favourites to win it. Bayern Munich are the favourites. They have unbelievable stability. Barcelona and Real Madrid too I will say, clearly in terms of potential, are clearly in front."
Watch Viktoria Plzen V CSKA Moscow Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 10 -December 2013
Watch Viktoria Plzen V CSKA Moscow Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 10 -December 2013.Therefore, Plzen must win with a superior scoreline to snatch the Europa League berth. If they win 3-2, CSKA’s European season will be spared by virtue of their superior goal difference.Watch Viktoria Plzen V CSKA Moscow Live, Watch Viktoria Plzen V CSKA Moscow Live Stream, Watch Viktoria Plzen V CSKA Moscow Free Live Stream, Watch Viktoria Plzen V CSKA Moscow Online, Watch Viktoria Plzen V CSKA Moscow Online Free, Viktoria Plzen V CSKA Moscow Live, Viktoria Plzen V CSKA Moscow live stream Online.
The Czech champions have lost both their home matches without scoring in the group, with Bayern Munich claiming a 1-0 win after three second-half goals had done the job for Manchester City, but it was a different story for Pavel Vrba's men in previous seasons.
They won 10 of their 11 preceding fixtures at the Doosan Arena in UEFA competitions, while CSKA's away form on the continent has taken a similar nosedive.
Before comprehensive 3-0 and 5-2 reverses at the respective hands of Bayern and City, they had only lost two of their previous 11 away trips – a run that played a part in four consecutive successful group campaigns across the UEFA Cup, Champions League and Europa League.
Keisuke Honda scored for CSKA in their win over Plzen in September and this game will be the Japan playmaker's last on the Russian club's books as he is set to join AC Milan on a free transfer in January.
The match also marks the end of an era for Vrba, who will leave Plzen on December 15 to take charge of the Czech national team.
Vrba took charge of Plzen in 2008, winning the club's first piece silverware - the Czech cup - in his second season, before going on to claim the 2011 and 2013 Gambrinus Liga titles.
Vrba is set to take up the position of Czech Republic coach at the conclusion of Plzen's Champions League campaign, which will follow the home clash with CSKA Moscow.
The former MSK Zilina boss has presided over almost six years of unprecedented success at the Doosan Arena and will be hoping his players can edge above CSKA and into third place in Group D by beating the Russians by a greater margin than their 3-2 loss in the return fixture.
"We have a great chance to get through to the Europa League," he said in remarks reported by www.sportovninoviny.cz.
The Czech champions have lost both their home matches without scoring in the group, with Bayern Munich claiming a 1-0 win after three second-half goals had done the job for Manchester City, but it was a different story for Pavel Vrba's men in previous seasons.
They won 10 of their 11 preceding fixtures at the Doosan Arena in UEFA competitions, while CSKA's away form on the continent has taken a similar nosedive.
Before comprehensive 3-0 and 5-2 reverses at the respective hands of Bayern and City, they had only lost two of their previous 11 away trips – a run that played a part in four consecutive successful group campaigns across the UEFA Cup, Champions League and Europa League.
Keisuke Honda scored for CSKA in their win over Plzen in September and this game will be the Japan playmaker's last on the Russian club's books as he is set to join AC Milan on a free transfer in January.
The match also marks the end of an era for Vrba, who will leave Plzen on December 15 to take charge of the Czech national team.
Vrba took charge of Plzen in 2008, winning the club's first piece silverware - the Czech cup - in his second season, before going on to claim the 2011 and 2013 Gambrinus Liga titles.
Vrba is set to take up the position of Czech Republic coach at the conclusion of Plzen's Champions League campaign, which will follow the home clash with CSKA Moscow.
The former MSK Zilina boss has presided over almost six years of unprecedented success at the Doosan Arena and will be hoping his players can edge above CSKA and into third place in Group D by beating the Russians by a greater margin than their 3-2 loss in the return fixture.
"We have a great chance to get through to the Europa League," he said in remarks reported by www.sportovninoviny.cz.
Watch Bayern Munich V Man City Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 10 -December 2013
Watch Bayern Munich V Man City Live Stream UEFA Champions League Match 10 -December 2013.David Silva is available for Manchester City's final Champions League group game against Bayern Munich but they are without Yaya Toure and Gael Clichy.Watch Bayern Munich V Man City Live, Watch Bayern Munich V Man City Live Stream, Watch Bayern Munich V Man City Free Live Stream, Watch Bayern Munich V Man City Online, Watch Bayern Munich V Man City Online Free, Bayern Munich V Man City Live, Bayern Munich V Man City live stream Online.
Both teams have already qualified for the knockout stages, with City trailing by three points and needing a big win to top the group.
Toure is suspended while Clichy (foot), Matija Nastasic and Stevan Jovetic (both calf) have not travelled.
City boss Manuel Pellegrini said: "All the other players are available."
Midfielder Silva has been absent for City's last six matches with a calf complaint and left-back Clichy has missed Manchester City's last two Premier League games with a foot problem.
But Pellegrini hoped Clichy would be fit for next weekend's home game against Premier League leaders Arsenal.
"He has a problem with his foot. It's not serious. I think he will be OK for Saturday," the Chilean manager added.
Ahead of that crucial game, Pellegrini has indicated he might rest some of his players with England goalkeeper Joe Hart likely to play instead of Costel Pantilimon.
City, who lost 3-1 at home in the first Group D fixture between the two sides, will win the group if they beat Bayern by a three-goal margin or if they score four or more goals in a win by a two-goal margin.
Manchester City provisional squad: Hart, Pantilimon, Zabaleta, Richards, Kompany, Lescott, Demichelis, Boyata, Kolarov, Milner, Navas, Nasri, Fernandinho, Rodwell, Garcia, Silva, Aguero, Negredo, Dzeko. joined the injured list after :
Both teams have already qualified for the knockout stages, with City trailing by three points and needing a big win to top the group.
Toure is suspended while Clichy (foot), Matija Nastasic and Stevan Jovetic (both calf) have not travelled.
City boss Manuel Pellegrini said: "All the other players are available."
Midfielder Silva has been absent for City's last six matches with a calf complaint and left-back Clichy has missed Manchester City's last two Premier League games with a foot problem.
But Pellegrini hoped Clichy would be fit for next weekend's home game against Premier League leaders Arsenal.
"He has a problem with his foot. It's not serious. I think he will be OK for Saturday," the Chilean manager added.
Ahead of that crucial game, Pellegrini has indicated he might rest some of his players with England goalkeeper Joe Hart likely to play instead of Costel Pantilimon.
City, who lost 3-1 at home in the first Group D fixture between the two sides, will win the group if they beat Bayern by a three-goal margin or if they score four or more goals in a win by a two-goal margin.
Manchester City provisional squad: Hart, Pantilimon, Zabaleta, Richards, Kompany, Lescott, Demichelis, Boyata, Kolarov, Milner, Navas, Nasri, Fernandinho, Rodwell, Garcia, Silva, Aguero, Negredo, Dzeko. joined the injured list after :
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