Manchester City are to kick-off their campaign with a lot of expectations this season with investments over 100 million and what a bigger test for them than a game away from home where they have struggled and won only 2 games last season. Blackburn Rovers were barely rescued from last season, and are heading into the new season after losing several players namely Derbyshire, Tugay, Andre Ooijer, Aaron Mokoena, Carlos Villanueva, Santa Cruz and in addition have injury concerns of Nelsen and Samba. Manchester City have some injury concerns of their own with Santa Cruz and Bellamy out. But they will have a more solid midfield lineup with Robinho, Barry, Ireland and Wright Phillips along with a front line of Adabeyor and Tevez. They had a good pre-season to build up this year, and would be looking to establish themselves from the first game onwards that they are a force to be reckoned with for this season. Manchester City on a half draw, half win Asian Handicap.