Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was at the Etihad last night to see Real Madrid draw with Manchester City. The Manchester Evening News says Ferguson was running his eye over Real ace Cristiano Ronaldo, who was at his best on the night.

Fergie has admitted getting the 27-year-old back was nothing more than a Christmas wish.

But United do have the emotional pull and City the finance so both sides of the great divide can dream he may one day return to the capital of the world game.