Why Rooney is key to derby clash

The Manchester derby — now a Premier League duel of major importance.

In one dugout a stoic Scot trying hard to emerge from the shadows of Sir Alex Ferguson and in the other a calm, phlegmatic Chilean fighting to prove he can cut it as a boss in England.

The two managers make for fascinating characters but on the pitch we’ll see a confrontation between two players who could shape each club’s season.

For United, Wayne Rooney has — as only he can — put a summer of discontent and transfer speculation behind him and returned to something approaching top form. He also looks lean, which is not always the case.

He will go up against Vincent Kompany, the City skipper whose absence has affected his team alarmingly during the start of the season.

New signings like Jesus Navas, Alvaro Negredo and Stevan Jovetic have struggled to make an immediate impact and the Belgian’s return will help those around him.

There’s no doubt, though, that Rooney will occupy most of his thoughts for the 90 minutes. My money’s on Rooney to make a real statement. n

TOMORROW

All times 11am unless stated

Norwich v Aston Villa

8:45am

Paul Lambert goes back to the club where he cut his managerial teeth with his young side struggling to recover from tough opening fixtures. 

They need a confidence boost — and for someone other than Christian Benteke to provide the goals.

Prediction: 1-1

Liverpool v Southampton

The injury to Philipe Coutinho is a huge blow for the Reds in their last match before Luis Suarez is available again after suspension. Iago Aspas has failed to convince so far.

Saints have been solid but last week’s 0-0 draw with West Ham was dire.

Prediction: 2-0

Newcastle v Hull

The Magpies showed up last week and made a mockery of all the negative talk surrounding the club. Yohan Cabaye’s head now seems right after the distraction of Arsenal’s bid. He’s Toon’s best player and is pivotal. 

Prediction: 2-1

West Brom v Sunderland

The bottom two have been hugely lacklustre so far. No bets on this one being pretty but the result is vitally important for morale. Still can’t help but think Paolo di Canio’s reign at the Black Cats is a ticking timebomb.

Prediction: 2-1

West Ham v Everton

Everton enjoyed a superb win over Chelsea last weekend as Roberto Martinez went some way to winning over his new fans. Gareth Barry looks a shrewd addition to the Toffees midfield.

The Hammers need goals. Period.

Prediction: 0-1

Chelsea v Fulham

1:30pm

Two chastening defeats for Jose Mourinho as he struggles to stamp his winning mentality on a young Blues side. He should find a home game against Fulham just what his foundering big-name players need.

Prediction: 3-0

SUNDAY

Arsenal v Stoke

9:30am

Remember the abuse and complaining after the opening-day defeat to Villa Gunners’ fans? No, thought not. Arsenal are playing well and, with Mesut Ozil, slotting in effortlessly, should bank the win. 

Prediction: 2-0

Crystal Palace v Swansea

9:30am

From the Mestalla to Selhurst Park. Bit like going from steak to spam for Swansea. Still, they’ll do well to win at Palace. It will be a little different to playing Valencia, though. 

Prediction: 2-2

Cardiff v Tottenham

12pm

Cardiff have confidence and are making a good fist of their first season. This will be a good test for Spurs’ new signings in a feisty atmosphere. Extra class should tell, however.  

Prediction: 1-2

Man City v Man Utd

12pm

The big one and, given Rooney’s recent spark into life, the game looks set up for him to inspire a victory and for United to really kick-start their season.  

Prediction: 2-3