Manchester City can seal the Premier League title with a win over Manchester United on Saturday, but with Pep Guardiola set to field a ‘weakened’ side, the Citizens may have a tough task on their hands despite the game taking place at the Etihad Stadium.
Here are a few key battles that could influence the outcome of the Derby…
1. Romelu Lukaku Vs John Stones
Romelu Lukaku has actually stepped up admirably in recent weeks where some of his teammates have fallen short of expectation.
The big Belgian’s hold up play and goal return have been excellent, so John Stones will have to bring his A-game.
The Englishman is expected to start as Guardiola rotates, and it will be important for him to come out on top of his physical battles with the United hitman.
2. Alexis Sanchez Vs Kyle Walker
Sanchez scored a much needed goal against Swansea last weekend and will be eyeing more success against City, the team he might have joined in January.
He’ll be up against the Premier League’s best right-back this season in Kyle Walker, who will not be beaten for pace by the Chilean.
The ex-Arsenal man will seek to come inside, where Paul Pogba and co will be waiting in support.
3. Bernardo Silva Vs Ashley Young
Bernardo Silva should play from the start on Saturday since he played no part against Liverpool in midweek.
He’s set for a battle against Ashley Young, who has had an indifferent campaign as a makeshift left-back.
As everybody knows, Bernardo likes to cut inside and so Young ought to show the Portuguese on to his weaker foot and hold him up until reinforcements arrive.
Let’