For the first time in two decades, City are spending time above United in the table at this stage of the campaign. Sunday's 2-1 victory over Newcastle at Eastlands, 24 hours after Sir Alex Ferguson's men had been fortunate to escape with a goalless draw at Sunderland, leaves Roberto Mancini's men in second spot, a point above the Red Devils, who have lorded it as kings of Manchester for so long.
But neither Blues assistant manager Brian Kidd, nor defender Vincent Kompany, is getting carried away.
"It is not about Manchester United," said Kompany.
"It is about us. As long as we remain in our present position we will be happy regardless of where United are."
The view is one Kidd endorses wholeheartedly. "Being above United has no impact on the players," he said.
"Manchester United have been so successful down the years, credit to them. But our season is about what we do. Don't worry about any other club. That is the message the boss is sending out."
Source: PA
Source: PA