WE RULE THIS CITY

Demolition derby just proves how far United have fallen behind as Erling uses fan taunts to sink rivals

ERLING HAALAND used taunts from Manchester United fans to help him sink them on their own patch.

United fans chanted "Keano" as he prepared to take a penalty at Old Trafford - a reference to Roy Keane's infamous brutal challenge on his father Alf-Inge at the same ground.

Haaland blocked out United's hecklers by converting the penalty, then added a second and set up Phil Foden for Manchester City's third to complete the rout over their local rivals.

The Norway striker said: "There was so many people singing 'Keano. I don't why but I used it as motivation and I gave them a good celebration.

"I saw the penalty on the screen and it was clear. Then it was about focusing and scoring.

Asked if beating United was extra special, Haaland said: "Of course it is. But in the big picture it's three points. You need consistency throughout the season in the competition."

United boss Erik ten Hag bizarrely claimed his side are "on the way up", despite their schooling by City, who condemned the Red Devils to a fifth defeat in 10 league games.

Ten Hag said: "The three games before this we won and the spirit is very good.