Midweek TV Preview: 3 - 5 January

Tuesday 3 January

20.00 Man City v Liverpool, Premier League, Sky Sports 1/HD1/3D

City blew the chance to establish some distance between themselves and United thanks to an errant linesman's flag at the Stadium of Light on New Years Day (not to mention 27 failed attempts on goal). Off pitch controversies aside, Liverpool are very dangerous opponents and this match promises to a thunderer, not to be missed.

22.00 Real Madrid v Malaga. Copa Del Rey 5th Round 1st Leg, Sky Sports 2/HD2

After their break for the festivities, those lazy Spanish return for some domestic cup action. Malaga are the nouveau riche of La Liga and like all recently monied clubs will be anxious for quick silverware to justify their expense. Be interesting to see which team wants this more.

Wednesday 4 January

20.00 Newcastle United v Man Utd, Premier League, Sky Sports 1/HD1/3D

Only one win in the last eight for the Toon. A worrying decline that could yet see them embroiled in a relegation scrap before the end of the season. Fortunately, for them they have a great chance to beat a United team that are so bad, they can't even manage as much as a point against Blackburn. *scoff*

22.00 Barcelona v Osasuna, Copa Del Rey 5th Round 1st Leg, Sky Sports 2/HD2

The visitors are unbeaten in all competitions since they were hammered 7-1 by Real Madrid in November and are having a good season.Their success has not come through sound defensive virtues, however as they are the only team in the top six with a minus goal difference. Keeping things tight at the Nou Camp and bringing them back to their place with a clean sheet will not be part of the plan.

Thursday 5 January

19.30 Cambridge United v Southport, Blue Square Premier League, Premier Sports

Southport may be in fourth place but they were honkered 6-0 at home to table topping Fleetwood Town in their last match. Cambridge are only five points behind.

Terry