Man City's Nico O'Reilly fit for Man Utd clash as Jeremy Doku misses out

O'Reilly was replaced minutes before kick-off before the Premier League clash against Coventry last weekend but has recovered in time for the trip to Old Trafford.

However, Jeremy Doku will miss the derby after Maresca confirmed the winger needs more time to recover.

"Nico is 100 per cent available and Jeremy needs some more days," Maresca said.

The City manager is expecting a hostile atmosphere at Old Trafford but insisted his players must concentrate on executing their game plan rather than being distracted by the occasion.

"The most important thing for the players is to be focused on the game," Maresca said.

"The main focus has to be the game plan: how we can win, press and be better. That is the main thing."

Maresca also praised Manchester United manager Michael Carrick for the job he has done since taking charge.

"He is doing a fantastic job since last season," Maresca said. "He took over in a complicated situation and finished very well.

"This season, more or less, has started in the same way. He's doing a very good job."

The Manchester derby remains a major occasion for both clubs, and Maresca knows the importance of the fixture to the supporters.

"It's very important for different reasons," he said. "We know how important a derby is, especially here, for the club, for the fans, for everyone.

"It's a special game. The most important thing we can do is try to be ourselves in the way we have been."

Maresca was also asked about Elliot Anderson's description of City as the "kings of Manchester".

He suggested the midfielder's view was understandable given City's dominance during much of the past 15 years.

"Probably the reason why Elliot said that was that he grew up in the last 15 years," Maresca said. "Man City were unbelievable with what they achieved. It's normal Elliot said that.

"If you go back, then it's a different picture, but when he grew up Man City were dominant."

City will also have the benefit of extra rest before the derby, although Maresca does not expect that to affect United's preparations.

"Sometimes it happens in football," he said. "I don't have any doubts Man Utd will be ready for that. It's just a matter of adapting."

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