Manchester United v Manchester City: Premier League – live

Manchester City have enjoyed a perfect start to the season without ever looking fully convincing in their victories. There are certainly more positives than negatives as Enzo Maresca learns more and more about his team. Against Porto they were sloppy for far too long and the midfield continues to look open, so a statement performance against their fiercest rivals would be ideal. The quality to rip open a team that has conceded two in each of their three Premier League outings thus far is there, and if it all finally clicks, then it could be a fine day for City.

Michael Carrick is in a not dissimilar position but only has four points to show for United’s indifferent efforts. There is always an underlying pressure for any Manchester United and he faces difficult league games today and next weekend at Fulham before an elongated international break. He can’t afford two defeats because there will be a long silence that will be filled with think pieces on the club because it is impossible to escape the noise at this club.