Marouane Fellaini: Manchester derby will be intense and aggressive

Manchester United midfielder has spoken ahead this weekend's tie

Marouane Fellaini in action for Manchester United (EPA)

Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini says Sunday's derby against Manchester City at Old Trafford will be "intense" for the players, as United look to continue their push to return to the Champions League next season.

United recently leapfrogged local rivals City in the Premier League after a win over Aston Villa at the weekend, and the Belgium international Fellaini says that United are desperate to continue their winning run as they seek a return to Europe's top tier. They were last in the competition in 2014 under David Moyes.

"It’s a massive game," Fellaini told Match of the Day magazine. "It's the derby, so it will be intense for the players and the supporters. We want to play in the Champions League next season so we have to win in front of our supporters. We have to do everything to win.

"In England every game is like a derby, because it’s physical. In the derby you have to be more aggressive and more tough if you want to win. Everything has to be within the rules, but the physical side in England is why it’s such a competitive league."

Fellaini also spoke of the "hard battle" he is anticipating against compatriot Vincent Kompany on Sunday.

"He’s is a tough player and it's certainly a hard battle when we play against each other. It will be a good challenge but to win the game is the most important thing."

Read the full Marouane Fellaini interview in this week's BBC Match of the Day magazine, on sale now.