Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has confirmed that midfielder David Silva will not be fit in time to face Manchester United in the derby on Sunday.
The new City boss has also confirmed that defender Micah Richards will miss out as well.
Both players have just returned to full first-team training after picking up injuries, but Pellegrini believes they have returned to late to be in contention for the derby.
“David Silva and Micah Richards are both back in training but Sunday is likely to come too soon for either to be involved in the squad,” said Pellegrini, who insists he is well aware of the importance of claiming local bragging rights.
The Chilean then made comments on the derby and started the mind-games with David Moyes already.
“I don’t need to be here to know just how important this game is to everyone,” he added.
“I’m well aware. Football in England is different, I hope everyone enjoys it. It’s a six-point game, these are two of the teams that will challenge.
“It’s important not to be under too much pressure. David Moyes will be feeling some pressure after taking over from Sir Alex Ferguson, but some pressure is good.
“Yes, I know he had a good record with Everton against City. But with Villarreal I have a good record against him.”
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt
