Shearer Says: “Man United have to beat Man City to keep their title hopes alive.”

Premier League legend discusses Manchester derby

The Manchester derby this weekend could be season defining for both clubs.

If United have realistic title aspirations they have to win this weekend.

It would be a disaster for United if City were to win, and whilst a draw is not a disaster, United have to win to maintain their title hopes. A win and it’s game on.

Momentum

Manchester City’s defeat in the Champions League midweek might just put a small seed of doubt in their minds, and give hope to United.

They hadn’t been beaten all season and now the game before the derby they’ve suffered their first defeat.

I know that they rested a few players to try and keep them fresh but it will certainly halt the momentum a little bit.

City’s recent run

For a team that has looked so strong defensively they have now conceded goals in their last four games.

I’m sure that Pep was in two minds whether to put a strong team out in midweek to keep the momentum going.

They might not have played too well in the last few games but they’ve built up a winning mentality, scoring late in games.

The wins against Southampton, Huddersfield and West Ham didn’t have the magic of some of their performances earlier in the season.

In the end Pep has tried to keep a few players fresh for Sunday but the winning run has ended.

We’ll have to wait and see if that has a big impact this weekend but it can be funny how football works like that.

Pogba

Paul Pogba will be a big miss for Manchester United, he’s been brilliant since he came back from injury.

You can’t really argue about the red card against Arsenal, the challenge was dangerous and it was late, but it’s a huge blow for United.