Manc derby is 'more intense' than London

CHRIS SMALLING has not completed a full season for Manchester United yet but he is already acutely aware the inter-city rivalry up north is far more intense than he was used to in London.

The former Fulham man knew all about battles between the capital clubs and the passions they can create.

But none of them quite compare with what he will experience this evening, as 90,000 supporters of Manchester's big two descend on Wembley, split down the middle between red and blue.

"The rivalry is more intense than it is down south," said the England Under-21 star. "There are a lot more clubs around London. Around Manchester you are either one or the other - and you need to choose wisely.

"I have really enjoyed it because I am right in the thick of it. Where I live, people either support City or United. I feel as though I have been dropped into a real rivalry.

"To play in a semi-final at Wembley would be a dream come true. Not many players get the chance to do it."