Rooney demands derby win
27 Nov 2008 - 10:10:41
Wayne Rooney claims Manchester United owe their fans a derby success following their recent slip-ups at the hands of Manchester City.
Rooney missed both of the Red Devils' derby defeats last season and the England striker is determined to make amends for the disappointment the United fans felt despite winning both the Premier League and Champions League.
The fiery frontman also believes a United victory would end claims from City followers that they are the biggest club in Manchester following the cash injection brought on by their Middle East takeover earlier this season.
"Sunday is a massive game," said Rooney. "Yes, we owe the fans a derby win even though we did win two trophies last season.
"Losing both games was extremely disappointing. It is a massive game for the players, the fans and the club - especially after what has happened at City with the takeover.
"It will be nice to show them who are the kings of Manchester.
"I missed both derbies last season and that was really frustrating having to watch when you cannot do anything about it. I am looking forward to Sunday.
"It doesn't irritate us that City are getting all this publicity. If they were winning trophies it would irritate me, but while they are still lingering in mid-table I am not really too bothered about it."
Rooney also believes a three-point haul at Eastlands is vital for United to remain touch with the leaders in the race for the Premier League title.
He added: "We cannot afford not to win, especially if Liverpool and Chelsea win their games.
"We have to keep winning all the games and I am sure we will catch them up. Our away form hasn't been great, but I am not too sure why that is.
"But we are still not too far away from Liverpool and Chelsea and that is the main thing for us. We normally finish the season strongly and hopefully we can do that again."