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