Beating City to the title would make it United's best ever triumph, admits Rooney
By Sportsmail Reporter
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Wayne Rooney admits that winning the Barclays Premier League this season would be extra special for beating Manchester City to the title.
United are in action at Blackburn on Monday night and can move five points clear of their rivals with a win, following City's disappointing 3-3 home draw with Sunderland on Saturday. Sir Alex Ferguson's side spent Sunday training at Dundee United's Tannadice stadium as they concluded their break to Scotland.
City have long been in United's shadow but have been propelled to the top of the English game by Sheik Mansour's millions. And Rooney is so thrilled to be duelling with the Blues he says it would rank among United's greatest ever achievements should they land their 20th league crown in May.
Relaxed: Wayne Rooney and Phil Jones in training at the St Andrews University Sports Centre
'Would it mean something extra because City are challenging? Yes, of course,' Rooney told the Sun. 'It's the first time since I've been here and the first time for many years that United and City have been going head-to-head for the title.
'To win it would be great for the players, the fans and the club as a whole, and it would definitely be one of the best titles we've ever won, if we can do it.'
Star attractions: United held a training session at Dundee United's Tannadice Park on Sunday
Many observers have commented that this is not a vintage United side, but Rooney reckons that the overall strength of the Premier League has increased, making their job harder.
Besides, the England striker says he does not care what anyone else thinks so long as the Red Devils finish on top of the pack in May.
He added: 'It's probably more challenging than it has ever been in the Premier League to win the title.
'You have to be at your best in every game. You can't perform at 75 per cent of your capabilities and expect to win it.
Dip in form: Manchester City have slipped behind fierce rivals United in the title race in recent weeks
'The league in general has got stronger over the last few years.
'You used to have the usual top four teams and then everyone else playing for the other positions.
'Now there is six or seven teams vying for a top-four place.
'We have played some great football at times and other times when we haven't played so well, but we've shown spirit and determination to grind out results.
Feeling the strain: City boss Roberto Mancini (second left) saw his side drop points at home to Sunderland
'If you look at our points tally for this stage of the season, it's probably one of the highest in United's Premier League history, so we haven't done too badly.
'We're not really too concerned what people say as long as we keep winning games.
'The most important thing is for us to concentrate on ourselves and make sure we take care of our results, but of course it does give you a real boost when you see your rivals drop points.
'We just need to keep winning to ensure we take advantage of that, if and when it happens.'
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