City wanted the fifth-round trip to Stamford Bridge played on Saturday but that proved impossible with Fulham at home on the same day and the BBC also choosing to televise the tie.

Vincent Kompany is very worried by his latest injury lay-off, Manchester City boss Manuel Pellegrini has revealed.

England forward Sterling is set to face the Reds for the first time on Saturday since his acrimonious move from Anfield.

The manner of the result bore similarities to the late win Borussia Monchengladbach three weeks ago and lifted City to second in Group D, just a point behind Juventus.

Manchester City have handed Manuel Pellegrini a new two-year contract on the eve of a season many expected to be the Chilean’s last with the club.