Will Tottenham's "doctor" cure Man City's illness?

The term "Tottenham doctor" refers to teams lacking confidence, form and points that will suddenly be cured by a positive result against Spurs.

Tottenham's 'surgery' has helped Crystal Palace and Ipswich Town recover this season, bringing them their first league wins.

And now Man City will be hoping for a similar cure from Tottenham to end a run of four straight defeats in all competitions.

Ironically, Ange Postecoglou's side had hurt City last month. Spurs beat the Premier League champions in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup to start a difficult run for City.

That defeat left Man City manager Pep Guardiola with the longest losing streak of his managerial career.

Tottenham have also long been a formidable side for the Spaniard. Under Guardiola, the Citizens have lost more games (6) and conceded more goals (22) to Spurs than any other team in the Premier League.

But even with the stats in Spurs' favour, a timely City recovery was expected, especially as the blue half of Manchester could be buoyed by news of Guardiola's contract extension.

If all goes well, the new contract will be signed and announced in the next few days. Guardiola joined Man City in 2016 and built his great empire at Etihad with a series of noble titles.

According to British media, Guardiola had considered leaving The Citizens along with Director of Football Txiki Bergiristain. Former Sporting Lisbon Director of Football Hugo Viana was chosen to replace Bergiristain, but Guardiola will not leave as originally planned.

Guardiola's agreement to extend his contract - even for just one year - is considered an important factor in helping Man City overcome this difficult period.

More than ever, they need to put aside their recent four-game losing streak to regain their inherent position. And of course, there is nothing better than marking their return with a victory over Tottenham.

But will Postecoglou close Spurs' "operating room" at Etihad to continue to cause sorrow for Man City?