Former left-back Patrice Evra is urging Manchester United's players to follow Erik ten Hag's plan to the letter ahead of Saturday's huge Manchester derby against City at Old Trafford.
United head into the contest with confidence flowing through their veins after Tuesday night's 3-0 Carabao Cup win over Charlton Athletic marked an eighth successive victory. A late brace from Marcus Rashford, coupled with a first-half stunner from Antony, was enough to help the Reds maintain their excellent run of form.
United have already beaten Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham at Old Trafford so far this season. However, Evra has warned how City, despite their recent stutters, have the capability to beat any team in the world on their day.
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"I feel good, I feel confident, like I did before the previous game, but at half-time in that one we were 4-0 down and we were just watching City play," Evra told Betfair. "What I want in this game is, first of all, to forget that other match because it was horrific, and I also want them to respect the plan. I want them to stick to the plan.
"I don't expect United to control the game because if they want to play to have possession of the ball against City they are going to lose. I think United can hurt them really badly. Looking at their weaknesses, City concede goals. You can score against them.
"When I watch City, I feel like any team can score against them, but if it's their day then they can destroy you. They can make you watch them, like they did against United earlier in the season.
"Of course, I'm confident. We've got a good record now and the atmosphere at Old Trafford is electric, everything is perfect. But sometimes in football when everything is perfect you can receive a big slap.
"I want United to play this as a derby, but they have to stick to the plan. Ten Hag will have a plan. If United play like the way they played against Arsenal and Liverpool, they weren't in control of the game but they were clinical."
Evra believes Marcus Rashford will be crucial to United's chances of victory. Evra added: "It's going to be a big test for Marcus Rashford because it's ok to score in six consecutive matches, but that wasn't really against the biggest teams, and now it's the kind of game where you need your number nine. I know exactly what will happen if we lose this game.
"The reports and everyone will say we need a number nine. You will see it everywhere: 'United need a number nine'. So, it's a big test for United and it's a big test for Rashford, [Anthony] Martial and [Alejandro] Garnacho, whoever plays up front. Whoever plays up front will have a big responsibility because I know that if United lose, they will be to blame."
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