United’s shaky defence will be put to the test in Manchester derby

AN early end to their European commitments means Manchester City can give their undivided attention to reining in English Premier League leaders Manchester United by making the most of their neighbours’ shaky defence in Sunday’s mouth-watering derby.

Already looking like a potential title-decider, the meeting at the Etihad Stadium comes in a week when Premier League champions City finished bottom of their Champions League group and missed out on even second-tier Europa League soccer.

“Clearly this [European exit] can help us win the Premier League because we don’t play in the Europa League,” City boss Roberto Mancini said after Tuesday’s loss at Borussia Dortmund.

Without European distractions, Mancini’s squad, who remain the league’s only unbeaten side, can focus on what most Blues fans believe is more important than continental glory – defeating United and beating them to the title once more.

Despite having lost three games, United hold a three-point lead over City with 36 points from 15 matches and the Manchester duo have been so dominant they have pulled clear of Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and West Bromwich Albion.

Elsewhere, Swansea City striker Miguel Michu can continue his sparkling run of form when Michael Laudrup’s side welcome Norwich City to the Liberty Stadium tomorrow.

Harry Redknapp’s relegation scrap at the helm of Queens Park Rangers continues when the bottom side travel to Wigan Athletic.

Southampton, in 18th, host 19th-placed Reading, with the Saints knowing a victory could move them out of the relegation zone should Sunderland draw or lose against Chelsea.

Aston Villa welcome Stoke City tomorrow, while Arsenal have a chance to close the gap on high-flying West Bromwich Albion.

Sunday’s other matches see Everton hosting Tottenham and West Ham United welcoming Liverpool. Fulham take on Newcastle United on Monday. – Reuters