Team News: Mario Balotelli returns for Manchester City

Striker Mario Balotelli has returned to the Manchester City starting lineup for this evening's home match against Blackburn Rovers.

The Italian will partner Sergio Aguero in attack, while Adam Johnson will start the match on the wing.

Visiting Blackburn will begin the encounter with five players in midfield, leaving Yakubu to play as a lone striker.

Man City: Hart; Kompany, Kolarov, Lescott, Zabaleta; Silva, Johnson, Yaya Toure, De Jong; Balotelli, Aguero

Blackburn: Robinson; Hanley, Orr, Martin Olsson, Dann; Marcus Olsson, Petrovic, Pedersen, Formica, Hoilett; Yakubu