Classic Match: United 4 City 3

City were undeniably on the rise, but still just the noisy, upstart neighbours.

Carlos Tevez had just moved from United to City; there were billboards all around the city that read ‘Welcome To Manchester’.

Mark Hughes thought they had the potential to claim bragging rights in the city. Sir Alex thought otherwise and was at pains to say so in the build-up.

There was more bad blood in the game than there had been for a long time. The scene was set for a classic – and for once the action exceeded the hype.

As I sat on the bench watching the action pulsate from end to end in a sold-out Old Trafford, I thought, this is exactly why I signed.

As Sir Alex gestured for me to get ready after 78 minutes…