Wayne Rooney talks up Manchester derby importance

Manchester United skipper Wayne Rooney has insisted that this weekend's derby match against local rivals Manchester City is a "very important" game for both sides.

The Red Devils leapfrogged the champions in the Premier League table last weekend courtesy of their fifth consecutive league win, with one point now separating the two sides.

Manchester City's title hopes have been all but dashed by a run of just four wins in 11 league games since New Year's Day, but Rooney believes that there is still a lot riding on the match as both sides look to seal a Champions League spot.

"You play for Man United, you want to win these derby games," he told MUTV.

"We want to give United fans something to smile about when they go to work on Monday morning, we want them to be the ones to be able to give out the banter to Manchester City fans at work.

"I think it's a very important game for Manchester United and Manchester City... for the fans and, for me, it's a massive game of pride."

United have lost their last four Manchester derbies against City.