It's derby day!

"It's derby day! One of the season's most anticipated fixtures, with both teams desperate for momentum and bragging rights in the city. United go into this lunchtime kick-off under new interim boss Michael Carrick, who steps into the Old Trafford dugout hoping to lift a team that has struggled for consistency. Any danger of a new manager bounce for once?"

"Despite United sitting seventh and only picking up one win in their last six Premier League outings, Carrick has been upbeat this week, insisting his squad are ready for the challenge after preparing well and building energy in training. He noted that players have "put the work in this week and we feel we're ready," while stressing his desire to enjoy the occasion and reward supporters with a strong performance."

"City arrive in decent overall form but slightly wobbly domestically, having drawn their last three league matches and now trailing Arsenal by six points in the title race. Nevertheless, Pep Guardiola spoke cautiously about United's unpredictability under their new coach, emphasising that with limited information on Carrick's tactics, City must focus on their game first and foremost."

Manchester United host Manchester City at Old Trafford under interim boss Michael Carrick. United sit seventh with one win in six Premier League matches, and Carrick says the squad trained with energy and confidence. Pep Guardiola warns of United's unpredictability under the new coach while noting limited tactical information and urging focus on City's own game. City have drawn their last three league matches and trail Arsenal by six points. Both clubs face selection issues: United miss Matthijs de Ligt, Shea Lacey and Noussair Mazraoui but have Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo back from AFCON. Guardiola confirmed defensive injuries to Ruben Dias, Joško Gvardiol and John Stones.

Read at Republik Of Mancunia: A Manchester United Blog