The news follows withdrawals of Joos Valgaeren and Emile Mpenza and the probable absence of Philippe Clement.

BBC: Baseggio joins casualties

That seemed to ignite the hosts with Elano to the fore and Emile Mpenza twice firing on goal, once on target and once wide.

BBC: Man City 1-0 Sunderland

City responded through Emile Mpenza heading wide as he, in contrast to the game, was tireless in his efforts to keep the Reds defence on their guard.

BBC: Man City 0-0 Liverpool

After 56 minutes both managers had seen enough, with Sven-Goran Eriksson throwing on Rolando Bianchi for Mpenza having withdrawn Michael Johnson, who was struggling with a groin problem, for Vassell at the break.

BBC: Man City 1-0 Sunderland