Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini wants Wayne Rooney to be fit to start for Manchester United in this weekend's derby.

City have already beaten United at home this season in the Carling Cup with Rooney playing and Italian manager Mancini does not see why his team cannot repeat that win again.

"I think it is better if Rooney plays on Saturday," he told www.mcfc.co.uk "He is a fantastic player and has had an amazing season.

"He will be a danger, of course, but United have many fine players in their team - but we have beaten them once at home already and can do it again.

"I think it is best if both teams are full strength and then the side who takes the three points can truly say the best team won and there is no reason that cannot be us."