Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz looking forward to derby game against Manchester United

Roque Santa Cruz is eagerly awaiting the blockbuster derby game between Manchester City and Manchester United at Eastlands.

The two sides lock horns at the City of Manchester Stadium on Saturday, with an adverse result being potentially disastrous for either side with regard to their season objectives.

The Sky Blues currently occupy the coveted fourth spot in the Premier League, and a loss will be the last thing that manager Roberto Mancini will want from the encounter against the club’s cross-town rivals.

On the converse, United are still in with a shout at winning a fourth consecutive league title, and any points dropped may spell doom in the race to the finish line for the current champions of England.

The Paraguay international consequently hopes to further his side’s top-four ambitions with a victory over the club’s arch-rivals, while scuppering the Old Trafford giants’ title bid in the process.

“It’s a big game for everyone,” Santa Cruz told Sky Sports News.

“It’s big for them because they’re in the title race and big for us because we’re going for fourth spot.

“We could make a big step if we win the three points. Our fans have high expectations for this game and I’m sure every Blue fan will really love the fact that if we win, we might take them out of the race for the title.

“It’s going to be a great atmosphere and we’re looking forward to it.”