City midfielder targets United scalp

Nigel de Jong is hoping Manchester City can claim the derby spoils against United on Saturday, cementing their standing in fourth place.

The Dutch midfielder is also aware that three points at Eastlands this weekend would put another serious dent in United's title bid.

Local bragging rights will also be up for grabs in the crunch clash, so there is all to play for on both sides of the divide.

City currently sit four points clear of Tottenham in the race for Champions League qualification and will head into derby day on the back of three successive wins.

They have plundered 14 goals during those fixtures and appear to have found top gear at just the right time.

Securing a top-four finish is now the sole target for City as the season draws to a close, although De Jong admits it would be nice to get one over on their arch-rivals for good measure.

"United need the points to catch Chelsea and they know Arsenal are behind them," De Jong told the Manchester Evening News.

"They have to secure their place in the top two. We need those points, even though Liverpool drew.

"But it's a derby and there is always more at stake. It would be nice to damage United's title chances but we have to focus on our own goal. Anything else is extra from our point of view."

De Jong has also reassured City supporters that there will be no repeat of the drama which has seen the Blues come unstuck on their two visits to Old Trafford this season.

City conceded dramatic late goals in both their league fixture and Carling Cup semi-final in United's backyard, so will be seeking revenge when the Red Devils stroll into their neighbourhood on Saturday lunchtime.

"This time we will go right to the end - I promise!" De Jong added.