Former Manchester City striker Shaun Goater thinks old club will come out on top in Saturday evening’s clash at the Etihad Stadium.
City are 11 points behind Liverpool in the table and cannot afford to lose more ground as they try to defend their title.
But Manchester United come into the game high on confidence after beating Jose Mourinho’s Tottenham 2-1 at Old Trafford on Wednesday.
Despite this, Goater, who was speaking on behalf of GentingBet, thinks City will prove too good for the Red Devils.
“From the neutral point of view, it’s a good thing United for a good result against Tottenham,” he said.
(Image: Joel Goodman)
“It makes sure they’re in good form and we all know City are doing well so it makes for a great game.
“City will find a way. I see City coming out with this one – a 3-1 win.”
Goater, who scored over 100 goals for City, thinks striker Gabriel Jesus will play a major role in the absence of Sergio Aguero, who will miss the match with a thigh injury.
He continued: “Jesus has been waiting in the wings for an opportunity. He scored a couple the other day.
“He’s got this window to solidify himself for a number of games and get some goals. He will be instrumental in the game.”
United’s man in form is Marcus Rashford, who was at the double to down former United manager Mourinho for his first defeat in charge of Spurs.
(Image: Getty)
Goater identified the 22-year-old as United’s greatest threat ahead of the derby.
“City should be well aware of Marcus Rashford. Pep [Guardiola] will be well aware of his ability, his form, his quality – and how to stop the threat of Marcus Rashford.”
Rashford will fancy his chances of getting on the scoresheet against a City defence that has looked fragile since the injury to Aymeric Laporte in August.
However, City need a positive result in the derby or risk losing touch with Liverpool at the top of the league.
“City slipped up, but we certainly can’t afford to slip up anymore,” said Goater. “I think it will be finished if City were to slip up again.”
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