The Manchester derby is a classic encounter in a city too small for two giants to coexist, and with just three points separating them going into this weekend’s derby, Sunday’s top of the table clash should prove as feisty as ever.
An early blow in 1974 saw City relegate their rivals in a tight clash when former United star Denis Law netted a late back heel to seal the Red Devils’ fate.
Law Poignantly refused to celebrate the goal, distraught at the pain that he had heaped on old team before the game was cut short when United fans invaded the pitch.
Feelings have not always been so tender, though. Roy Keane’s challenge on Alf-Inge Haaland in 2001 comes to mind.
In recent times, though, City have edged up alongside United in stature thanks largely to a substantial cash injection from owner Sheik Mansour.
The intensity of the rivalry has been heightened by this, producing some classic Premier League encounters and the tightest finish to a season ever seen.
To whet your appetite for Sunday afternoon's encounter at Old Trafford, scroll through the gallery above for five classic Premier League encounters
