Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini can expect a major test against Stoke City today.

Mancini will move two points clear of deadly enemies United if his side can secure their first win in five attempts at the Britannia.

Stoke boss Tony Pulis said: "City haven't spent that money to be runners-up - it was spent to win trophies.

"With their resources, the money they've spent and the players they've got, they will be desperately keen to get over the line.

"City beat us to win the FA Cup last year but the expectations this season are even greater.

"They have only got one competition to focus on now and the gloves are off and it will be a fight to the finish. United play Fulham on Monday so everyone will be looking at our game.

"Alex Ferguson knows we'll do our best and most managers know when they play Stoke we'll run them close.

"We've not lost to City here yet and I'd settle for that continuing."