• Premier League

Rooney aiming to add to Man City woes

ESPN staff
December 9, 2012
Wayne Rooney is hoping for derby day delight © PA Photos
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Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney is hoping a win in Sunday's derby will heap more pressure on Roberto Mancini and his City side.

Rooney and his United team-mates sit three points above their City rivals on the Premier League table ahead of the clash at Etihad Stadium.

Mancini's men crashed out of the Champions Leauge midweek following a 1-0 loss to Borussia Dortmund, and Rooney believes that result be used to United's advantage.

"City are out of the Champions League and are having a bit of a tough time - I think everyone can see that behind the scenes. If we win, we can put more pressure on them. If we get three points there, it will be massive for us.

"Obviously, it is a massive game, probably up there with Liverpool. The two of them. There is a big rivalry, the two of us are fighting for that number-one spot. We're trying to go there and get three points. We are all excited for the game," Rooney said.

Rooney also pinpointed United's wide players as an area which could help Sir Alex Ferguson's side make a decisive move in the Premier League title race.

"I think our strength is getting wingers on the pitch, getting the ball out wide, attacking and getting crosses into the box," he said. "That's obviously the way Manchester United have played for years, so I think that's one of our strengths.

"Of course, they have a strong central midfield, but they also leave gaps out wide, so I'm sure Sir Alex and Roberto Mancini will be looking at different things and ways they can capitalise on each team's weakness."

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