In eight derbies since Ole Gunnar Solskjær’s tenure began, Manchester United have lost only twice to Manchester City. How the besieged manager would love even a draw – there has been one in those eight – against the champions at Old Trafford because a defeat, particularly a heavy one, would lead to more demands that the Norwegian is sacked. Pep Guardiola may look at how Liverpool demolished United 5-0 – by driving through a fragile midfield and defence – and inform his side to do the same. Jamie Jackson
Saturday 12.30pm Sky Sports Premier League
Venue Old Trafford
Last season Manchester United 0 Manchester City 0
Referee Michael Oliver
This season G8 Y25 R1 3.25 cards/game
Odds H 7-2 A 4-6 D 3-1
MANCHESTER UNITED
Subs from Heaton, Henderson, Shoretire, Matic, Mata, Hannibal, Van de Beek, Dalot, Mengi, Pereira, Jones, Lingard, Telles, Elanga, Martial, Cavani, Sancho, Rashford
Doubtful Lindelöf (knock)
Injured Varane (hamstring, Dec)
Suspended Pogba (second of three games)
Discipline Y24 R1
Form WLDLLW
Leading scorer Bruno Fernandes, Ronaldo, Greenwood 4
MANCHESTER CITY
Subs from Steffen, Carson, Palmer, Fernandinho, Jesus, Aké, Mbete, Zinchenko, Sterling, Gündogan, Delap
Doubtful Walker (match fitness)
Injured Torres (foot, Dec)
Suspended Laporte (one game)
Discipline Y16 R1
Form DWDWWL
Leading scorer Foden 3
