Derby duo seek wow factor

RYAN Giggs admits both Manchester clubs head into Sunday's Barclays Premier League derby still struggling to recapture last season's form.

United are three points ahead of unbeaten City, who themselves are seven clear of Chelsea.

But still the pair have come in for strong criticism, which has intensified this week following the Red Devils' woeful defending at Reading and the Blues' dismal Champions League exit.

"We are both in a similar situation," said Giggs. "We are in a good position in the league, but haven't hit the form we did in parts last season. That can be frustrating because we want perfection.

"We must be doing something right, because we are in a good position.”

Giggs has been in a record 35 derby games, which he says have increased in intensity since City’s resurgence.

The Welshman is aware how significant Sunday's game can be: "The two games against them were the difference last season. Hopefully, we can get the right result and that will be the difference come the end of this season."



FORMER City hero Paul Dickov expects Sunday’s derby to be a cagey affair.

"If City win they are back level-pegging with United. But if United win, they go six points ahead, a big gap,” said the Athletic boss.

"As good as the two teams are, attacking-wise, I think a draw would suit both. It’s not bad having patchy form when you are first and second in the league.

"If anyone doesn't know what the derby means, they will know within the first five minutes on Sunday. The derbies really are something special. The atmosphere is fantastic."