Sergio Aguero's loss could be Mario Balotelli's gain after the Argentine striker went off injured during his side's 3-0 win at home to Stoke City.

The New Year's Day success enabled City to preserve the seven-point gap that separates it from Premier League leader Manchester United.

It came at a cost, however, with Aguero forced from the fray in the 76th minute after apparently injuring his hamstring.