Assistant-manager Brian Kidd revealed Nigel de Jong is battling to overcome an ankle injury, whilst James Milner has a hamstring problem.

However, Mario Balotelli is fit and a typically industrious performance is expected from Shaun Wright-Phillips, even though it seems increasingly likely his future lies away from Eastlands.

"There is not a problem with Shaun," said Kidd.

"He has a really good mentality and is going to be a very important part of our squad from now until the end of the season.

"It is the same with Mario. With matches every three or four days, it is fantastic to have him back."

Meanwhile, Kidd has shrugged off the faux-pas by current Europa League opponents Aris Thessaloniki, who printed a team photograph in their match programme on Tuesday including the likes of Wayne Rooney, Fernando Torres and Lionel Messi by mistake.

Aris pulped most of the programmes ahead of the 0-0 draw but a few remain in circulation and are now attracting decent sums on eBay.

"I haven't seen it but it was very good," smiled Kidd.

"It is just a bit of fun. You have to laugh at yourself don't you?"