Manchester City defender Micah Richards says he's ready for Monday's derby with Manchester United.

City head into one of the most eagerly anticipated Manchester derbies of all time knowing they can reclaim top spot in the table with two games remaining with a victory.

Richards told the club's website: "Because United have always been better than us and have always had the bragging rights, it just makes it a little bit more special.

"I've played against them since I was part of the Under-14s and they've always been the better at every level.

"We're not quite there yet, though we're slowly, but surely catching up.

"The players who have just come in didn't really know what the derby in Manchester was all about - they're getting it now, though!

"Everyone wants to beat United because it's a huge game and there's never been a better time for this."