Man United are capable of causing an upset at the Etihad, says Hughes

Mark Hughes has warned Manchester City not to assume that they have got the upper hand in the Premier League title race because of their home advantage against Manchester United in Monday night’s derby.

The Red Devils are currently three points clear of Roberto Mancini’s side but City can move ahead of United on goal difference with victory over the defending champions at the Etihad Stadium.

Hughes, who spent two spells at Old Trafford as a player and also was in charge at Eastlands for three seasons, believes United are more than capable of getting a result at City’s home ground.

“It’s a huge game,” said Hughes. “Everyone’s going to be focused on that. It’s a difficult one to call.

“A couple of weeks back we felt City were out of the race and now they’re back in to it. United possibly feel that they’ve let an opportunity slip somewhat.

“But in fairness I think people have made the assumption that City are going to win it.

“Maybe a lot of the hopes of the blue half of the City were based on that they had United to come at the Etihad and it was given – it’s certainly not.

“Having spoken to a couple of people at United a few weeks back I know they’re of the view that it’s not a given that they’re going to get beaten when they turn up at the Etihad.

“It lines up to be a fantastic game for everyone else and a huge match for the town of Manchester.”

The Queens Park Rangers manager was reluctant to name who he thinks will win the title but hopes his Loftus Road outfit will have a say on the trophy’s destination when they face City on the final day.

“It’s difficult to call [who will win the title],” added Hughes.

“We might have a say in it. We hope we will. Hopefully we’ll be safe by then and there won’t be as much significance on the result.

“But who knows? We may well play a part. It’s a huge game for United, they can take it away from City on Monday. If they don’t, there’s other games to be negotiated.”