Paul Merson states his prediction for Man United v Man City

Paul Merson is tipping Manchester United to edge to a 2-1 victory over Manchester City in Saturday’s derby showdown.

The Red Devils are preparing to welcome their bitter local rivals to Old Trafford as they look to continue their impressive start to the season under new manager Jose Mourinho.

United have won all three of their Premier League games and also beat Leicester to lift the Community Shield at Wembley last month.

City have also made a bright start under new boss Pep Guardiola, winning all three of their games to lead the way at the top of the Premier League table.

However, Merson is backing United to make home advantage count and secure victory over their bitter local rivals at Old Trafford on Saturday lunchtime.

Writing in his column for Sky Sports, Merson said: “Sergio Aguero is an absolutely massive miss for Man City. I know people say they have so much money and can afford to sign anyone, but he is one player they will struggle to replace. He is their best player by a million miles.

“It will be interesting to see how John Stones gets on against Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Stones has the potential to be a top player but he’s inexperienced and is going up against someone who has been there, done it and got the t-shirt.

“We saw what Zlatan did to a player like Ryan Shawcross on his England debut when he was playing for Sweden.

“I expect Man United to just pip this game without Aguero.”

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Manchester United are looking to win the top flight title for the first time since Sir Alex Ferguson was in charge back in the 2012-13 season.

The Red Devils finished fifth and won the FA Cup under Louis van Gaal last term.