RIVAL BOSSES IN DESPERATE DUEL

They know that they are important, that they can be important.

“So let’s follow the example of Wayne (Rooney) and (Anthony) Martial.

“They came into a game at Burnley, that we really needed to win, and they gave more than expected.

“The fact that we are fighting for important things still is a good motivation to keep people together, to make people make an extra effort.

Difficult

“We go with what we have. I trust the boys and I know Pep is very intelligent. I know their players are experienced and I know they know it will not be easy.”

Guardiola has endured a difficult first season at City and is arguably facing more pressure to win than Mourinho.

Failing to secure Champions League qualification is unthinkable and Guardiola is expecting an uncompromising clash. He has been unhappy with the standard of refereeing this season and wants his side to play even better to reduce the risk of being victims of another poor decision.

The Spaniard, who has declared Sergio Aguero and Gabriel Jesus fit but could be without David Silva, said: “Fundamentally I’m the same and he’s (Mourinho) the same.

“He’s a huge competitor and his teams are always so difficult to face. They have quality and are so aggressive in the duels.

“I have a lot of respect for his career and what he’s done in football.

“About the referee, I speak with my players in the locker room.

“When I have to talk about the referees, I speak with them on the pitch, the fourth official. I give my opinion face to face.

“What happened has never happened before in my life.

“All we can do is play better. If that doesn’t happen, it’s our fault, but if we play better, the influence of the referee will be lower.”