Manchester derby: Marcus Rashford must find a spring in his step

In January, Manchester United came from behind to deservedly beat Manchester City and were proclaimed as officially 'back' by many.

There may have been a heavy dose of controversy about their 2-1 Old Trafford win, with Marcus Rashford suspiciously both offside and interfering with play prior to Bruno Fernandes sweeping home United's equaliser.

But when Rashford tucked in United's winner four tumultuous minutes later, it certainly felt like a corner had been turned after years of failing to match the old standards.

After that win, United sat just one point behind City and within touching distance of Premier League pace-setters Arsenal with half the season still to play.

As we know, City went on to win the Treble and as the two neighbours prepare to meet again there are few discernible signs United have progressed in the 10 months since.

City enjoyed 71 per cent of the ball back in January and will likely see plenty of it on Sunday, meaning United will have to be flawless if they're to take anything from the contest.

But there are a few aspects from that last Old Trafford meeting Ten Hag may seek to replicate.

If United are going to have to sit in and absorb lengthy spells of City pressure, defensive resilience and organisation will clearly be essential.

But also swift midfield transitions to beat City's press and get the ball to the wide attackers - especially Rashford - to cause mischief.

Twice in the first-half back in January, Rashford was played clear of City's high back line but squandered the opportunity.

On the first occasion, United cleared their lines and Casemiro found Fernandes, who played the perfect quarterback ball from 10 yards inside his own half straight to Rashford running free on the left.

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