New Delhi, Sept. 12 -- It's been a mixed season so far for Manchester United. While the Red Devils were humbled by Hull City in their opening Premier League encounter, a win over Ipswich Town, and a last minute draw against Everton have tempered optimism generated by last season's revival.

However, a 4-0 victory over Sabah in the Champions League came as a welcome boost for Michael Carrick's men ahead of their Premier League Derby against Manchester City at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Carrick's first Manchester derby as interim manager brought a victory and bought him time. Eight months later, after leading Manchester United to a third-placed finish and being appointed on a permanent basis, expectation has soared ahead of the Derby clash. ...