Manchester United head into the 191st local derby with City on the back of three consecutive wins in all competitions, but they know an improved performance is necessary against the Blues.

Erik ten Hag’s side won the UEFA Champions League match against FC Copenhagen on Tuesday, but only thanks to Andre Onana’s spectacular penalty save with the final action of the Group A encounter.

Sergio Reguilon and Raphael Varane were the two alterations to the starting XI on the night, but Casemiro is back in the mix after suspension ruled him out of the European match, even if his participation is still uncertain following a knock while on international duty with Brazil.

“Case is a race against the clock,” admitted Ten Hag at his pre-match press conference. “He is not 100 per cent.”

The boss elaborated in his interview with club media, adding: “He will do everything he can to be part of it, to start the game, but we have to see. We have some hours to go.”

There is good news regarding right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who is continuing to work his way back to full fitness.

“Yes, Aaron was training today,” confirmed the manager, when speaking to journalists at Carrington.

Luke Shaw, Lisandro Martinez, Tyrell Malacia and Amad are still on the sidelines for the Reds.

“[There are] not so many changes, no [to the squad],” Ten Hag admitted to MUTV’s Mark Sullivan.

CITY’S TEAM NEWS

Pep Guardiola will be missing Kevin De Bruyne, who is injured, and suspended defender Manuel Akanji.

The Blues were concerned about the fitness of England international Phil Foden in midweek, but Julian Alvarez came off the bench in the 3-1 Champions League triumph over Young Boys.

Guardiola praised Jack Grealish’s performance in Switzerland, although he hasn’t started a league game since August.

Rodri’s return from suspension has aided City’s resurgence, although they are still two points behind Tottenham Hotspur in second place in the Premier League rankings.

“United are always a tough, tough opponent,” said Guardiola. “We know the quality they have, there is no doubt about that.”