Game thread: Aston Villa v Manchester City

Villa will have newly-signed striker Darren Bent in their ranks for today's game, one that comes only a few weeks after City had a comfortable win at The City of Manchester Stadium.

Here are some quick reads ahead of the game and as usual, comment away below and catch my updates on Twitter during the game:

• City are rumoured to be targeting Ajax defender Gregory van der Wiel. [MEN]
• But Roberto Mancini is bemoaning the fact that the January window sees inflated prices. [Mail]
• A closer look at City's formation and tactics. [man-city-issues]
• SBNation's Villa Blog is excited about Darren Bent's arrival. [7500 to Holte] 
• Tor-Kristian Karlsen profiles Darren Bent v Edin Dzeko. [guardian.co.uk]