Boss: Blues are the real deal

Boss: Blues are the real deal

Sir Alex Ferguson has seen most things in Manchester derbies during his 23 years at United, but Tuesday's clash at Eastlands may provide a new angle.

Rarely have the local rivals entered a contest when both sides have the scent of silver in their nostrils - the norm in Sir Alex's time has been City striving to spoil United's party. But now the Blues have a different aim, with 'just' the derbies and a potential final against Aston Villa or Blackburn standing between them and a first major trophy since 1976.

"You have to recognise they (Manchester City) are a competitor now," said Sir Alex today.

"They are making a much better fist of their league programme this year than they have done in the past. We have had to wait a long time for it to be like that.

The Blues' 2-0 loss at Everton was something of a surprise - the first defeat for new boss Roberto Mancini after four straight wins to nil in the league and FA Cup. The Italian will no doubt be anxious to bounce back quickly in the biggest game of City's season so far.

"It's a popular argument (that the match means more to City). As far as I am concerned it is a semi-final," added Sir Alex.

"It doesn't matter how many semi-finals you have played in, they are always occasions you want to do well in. That is important."