Ferguson aiming to silence City

MANCHESTER United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has stoked the derby fires ahead of next month's Community Shield clash by once again branding Manchester City the "noisy neighbours".

Ferguson first used the disparaging comment in September, 2009, following Michael Owen's dramatic injury–time winner at Old Trafford.

Since then though, City have ended their 35–year trophy drought, beating United in the FA Cup semi–final before overcoming Stoke in the final.

They have also secured a place alongside the Red Devils in this season's Champions League group phase and appear set to break their club record to sign Sergio Aguero from Atletico Madrid.

Ferguson accepts the Blues' ascent makes them more formidable opposition, which is why he wants the volume turned down at Wembley on August 7.

"It is addressing our noisy neighbours again," said Ferguson of the City encounter, admitting he will need to make changes to his side's preparations, starting with tomorrow night's encounter with the MLS All–Stars.

"Last year I mucked up by giving the players too many half games in pre–season and not enough 90 minutes. I will address that this year."