Manchester United striker Anthony Martial. (Photo : Reuters)
Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea (Photo : Reuters)
If you want a 'clash of the titans' then look no further to Sunday's epic clash in the Barclays Premier League. Sunday afternoon sees the mouth watering game which sees first take on third, but the first Manchester derby will be much more than a game which sees first against second.
Sunday's second sees the Blue part of Manchester take on the Red part of Manchester. Some say it only, but try telling that to the locals.
City who have become the more dominant force in recent years, will be determined to show the Red had that they are not noisy neighbours. United on the other hand will be looking to show the world, and not just Manchester City that they are still a force to be reckoned with.
United are of course England's most successful team in England with 20 domestic titles. The majority of those titles as we know were won with legendary Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson.
The 20 time champions have been going through a transitionary period ever since the legendary Scot decided to call it a day. first David Moyes was charged with the task of taking over from Sir Alex, then it was Holland's world cup manger of 2014 Louis Van Gaal.
Van Gaal has been very busy trying to overhaul the squad during his time in charge at Old Trafford. Despite an outlay of approximately £400 million on playing talent, it's players in the Ferguson era such as David DeGea, Michael Carrick and Wayne Rooney who will be key to Manchester United's hopes.
As far as the likely team news goes, Manchester United will be out long term injury victim Luke Shaw (broken leg), Marcos Rojo who was superb against Everton will likely keep his place. In the centre of defence, it looks like Phil Jones and Chris Smalling will continue.
United were excellent against Everton last time out so I won't be surprised if the Reds keep the same squad, as well as same personnel. The Red Devils will be aware of Pablo Zabaleta's qualities at full back, that will lead in my opinion will lead LVG to turn to Anthony Martial to deal with that threat.
City who top the table coming into this derby top of the league have a few issues to resolve. The Blues who were superb against Bournemouth need to decide if captain Vincent Kompany is ready to return.
The inspirational skipper has missed the last five games through injury - but annoyed City boss Pellegrini after playing an International game when not fully fit. For City's sake they will need their 'captain Marvel' available against a rampant United.
The Citizens do have some issues in attack as well with Sergio Aguerro injured for a month and David Silva unavailable fir this one. Such is the talent in City's squad one would expect Raheem Sterling and Wilfried Bony to slot in to those two places with the minimal amount of fuss.
Sunday's came promises much, but as far as having a say in the title race, no I don't think so, I think this one is going to end a 1-1 draw.
