Man City vs Norwich – 5 Key Tactical Battles That Could Decide The Game

4. David Silva vs Russell Martin

The silky skills of Spanish star Silva, nominally operating from City's left flank are also a major cause for concern. Scotland international Martin would be more than happy to follow him infield as he is no strange to playing in the middle. Even so this is a bit of a mismatch: creative cunning against resolute defending. Silva has made five assists already this season and will look to add more. It's a tactical nightmare for Martin and his Canaries colleagues to try and mark him. If Silva and Samir Nasri switch flanks then the Spaniard becomes attacking left-back Martin Olsson's problem. Whatever happens, Martin knows young Nathan Redmond ahead of him on the right wing for Norwich will afford him little protection. The game could see two banks of four, but Hughton may opt for an extra body in midfield. Whether matching City's shape would stifle Silva remains to be seen, however, as he plays between the lines and in pockets of space anyway. This won't make pleasant reading for Canaries fans, but their best bet in shackling the main creative influence of their hosts might simply be through fortune. If Silva has an off day, that will help Norwich's cause.