Pablo Zabaleta has highlighted the importance of the Manchester derby to Manchester City's supporters.

As the current Premier League leaders get set to host crosstown rivals Manchester United on Sunday, the Argentine defender spoke of the emphasis the playing group will place in the match in order to gain a positive result for the loyal fans.

"We know how much the derby means for the fans. It's the one everyone expects to win and hopefully we can put in a good performance," Zabaleta told Sky Sports News HQ.

"It's a crucial game. They have the chance to go top of the league but it's a chance for us to extend the gap between us and United and Arsenal.

"We expect a very tough one. Old Trafford is a hard place to go and they have improved. They brought in some good players in the summer, spending good money to make a strong team.

"They are one of the contenders to the title, I'm 100% sure of that, but we've done it before and hopefully we can repeat it again. I've been involved in some big derbies, winning some of them and losing others, but hopefully on Sunday I can celebrate another three points."