Yaya Toure relishing derby pressure

Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure has insisted that he enjoys playing in the intense atmosphere of a derby match.

Roberto Mancini's side host Manchester United on Sunday when the fierce rivals resume hostilities at the Etihad.

Toure believes that the pressure of performing in a high-stakes match brings out the best in him but causes some to buckle.

He told The Sun: "Some guys get stressed but it's water off a duck's back to me.

"The eyes of the football world will be centred on Manchester and that suits me fine. These are games I love because it is a challenge against a strong team.

"I enjoy the pressure and everything that goes with it. We have a mentality that we will not be beaten on our own pitch."

City are aiming to protect an unbeaten home record that stretches back for more than two years.