Wayne Rooney has added fuel to the fire ahead of Sunday's Manchester derby by claiming it is not the biggest game of the season for his side.
Manchester United will face Manuel Pellegrini's City at the Etihad Stadium in a much-anticipated game but Rooney believes the clashes with Liverpool mean much more to the Old Trafford-based club.
"They're all big games. Obviously United and Liverpool has been a massive game over the years," Rooney told The Mirror when asked if United vs City is now the biggest rivalry in English football.
"City have had their success recently, but I would probably say that United and Liverpool is still the biggest game."
City won the Barclays Premier League title in dramatic fashion two seasons ago on goal difference before Sir Alex Ferguson led the Red Devils to the final title of his highly decorated career last term ahead of his retirement.
However, Rooney does not think this weekend's fixture against United's noisy neighbours will define this season.
"The English players are more aware of what it means after the last four or five years," the 27-year-old forward said.
"It's a big game and we'll be going there hopefully to win. I've scored a few goals against City and I'm looking forward to the match.
"It's a massive game between two title contenders. It's not going to define the season, but it's a big game, a local derby."
