’No secrets here’

Man u boss Alex Ferguson says both Manchester teams, United and City, know each other too well to expect any surprises in today's derby clash

'No secrets here'

Man u boss Alex Ferguson says both Manchester teams, United and City, know each other too well to expect any surprises in today's derby clash

Wayne Rooney

United entertain City at Old Trafford knowing victory would almost certainly end their neighbours' lingering Premier League title hopes. However, a second away win in four years would leave the Blues trailing Ferguson's side by just two points and knowing they face a hazardous run-in, which includes matches against Liverpool and Arsenal, and champions Chelsea to face twice.

Little wonder few clues have been offered about team selection. "I have a good idea of their team, they have a good idea of ours," said Ferguson."There are no secrets today. Absolutely none. "The video analysis gives you new detail in terms of preparation for games. "When we come to analyse our opponents, we have a fair idea of who will play, and it is the same for them."

Carlos Tevez

Neutral fans will doubtless hope for a repeat of the corresponding fixture last term, a seven-goal thriller settled by Michael Owen in the sixth-minute of stoppage time, rather than the bore draw at Eastlands earlier this season. Victory is surely more important for City than United given the relative state of the teams. Meanwhile, United Spirits have not been dampened by the loss of their 29-match unbeaten run at Molineux. "This unbeaten run was always hanging over us," conceded Ferguson. "The focus has changed from that to winning the league again," the Scot added.

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