Manchester City are full strength for the derby against Manchester United, although Carlos Tevez is unlikely to feature as his disciplinary investigation continues.
United's only absent starter is Tom Cleverley, who has an ongoing foot problem: Antonio Valencia or Ryan Giggs should start in midfield, while Rio Ferdinand is expected to return after being rested in midweek.
Tottenham Hotspur have serious defensive issues ahead of their Sunday clash with Blackburn Rovers.
Ledley King (groin) has joined Michael Dawson (Achilles), William Gallas (calf) and Vedran Corluka (ankle) on the sidelines, with midfielder Tom Huddlestone - who can also play centre-back - also out.
That leaves Younes Kaboul, Sebastien Bassong, Kyle Walker and Benoit Assou-Ekotto as their only fit, senior defenders - making an easy decision if you plan on exploiting the fact they are facing the second-bottom side in the Premier League, although Rovers have no injury worries.
Otherwise, Fernando Torres has to sit out Chelsea's West London derby against QPR as his suspension runs down, while Hoops striker DJ Campbell will be out for a few months after breaking a foot.
Ramires also picked up a knock and is expected to miss out.
There is good news for struggling W trio Wolves, West Brom and Wigan, who have no serious concerns, although Latics back-up keeper Chris Kirkland had his loan terminated by Doncaster after picking up a back problem.
Wolves in particular have a winnable game at home to Swansea, who have the same five players out as last week.
