Dennis Irwin predicts Erik ten Hag will deploy his counter-attacking assets when Manchester United get down to business against Manchester City on Saturday lunchtime (12.30pm).
Having won eight matches on the spin in all competitions, United can move a point behind their neighbours with victory over them in that Premier League showdown, while Marcus Rashford has struck-up impressive form under the Dutchman this season - with 18 goals for club and country from 30 appearances.
Irwin spoke about the impending derby with MUFC media. He said: "You always have to be aware of other teams and their assets, what they're good at, what they're capable of - which is quite a lot in City's terms - and also what their vulnerabilities are.
READ MORE: Weghorst presents new challenge
"So you always have to be wary, whether you're playing Manchester City or a team in the league, you've got to be aware of what they're good at. Essentially, I think you concentrate on yourselves, how you can win the game, what you can do to win the game."
Irwin added: "I don't think Manchester United will ever be at the stage where we just want to cancel a team out. I wouldn't say the onus is on us to go and attack, but the manager will want us to attack and to counter-attack and have a bit of pace about ourselves, [He will want] a bit of quick passing so that we can threaten City."
Games continue to come thick and fast for Ten Hag and his men throughout January, with United still competing in four competitions this season. Since the World Cup finals, they have already played six matches, winning them all to extend their impressive stretch to eight in all competitions.
Rashford smashed a record set by Wayne Rooney to score for the eighth consecutive home game against Charlton on Tuesday night. Back in action at the same venue, the England forward - who already has 15 goals to his name this season for his club - will be the United dangerman, once again.
MORE TO READ:
