Anelka sent for scan

Nicolas Anelka will have a scan later today in an effort to discover the extent of the injury which has sidelined Manchester City’s record signing for the last fortnight.

The French striker has been complaining of back and groin problems and, after missing a week’s training, will not be considered for tomorrow’s trip to Crystal Palace.

However, Robbie Fowler will return after missing the FA Cup defeat at Oldham due to a family bereavement and is expected to replace Bradley Wright-Phillips in what is otherwise expected to be an unchanged side.

Willo Flood definitely misses out with a hamstring strain, while Stephen Jordan returns to the squad after his recent ankle problem.

Provisional squad: James, Waterreus, Onuoha, Distin, Sommeil, Thatcher, Dunne, Bosvelt, S Wright-Phillips, Barton, Sibierski, Fowler, McManaman, Macken, B Wright-Phillips.