Sir Alex Ferguson believes that Manchester City will go on to claim the Premier League title should they win Monday night's crunch match at the Etihad Stadium.

The title race is finely poised, with Manchester United leading their local rivals by three points.

Ferguson believes that anything but defeat will see his team retain their pre-match tag as favourites for a 20th Premier League crown.

However, the 70-year-old has warned the Citizens that his players will be going all out for the win.

"If City win they would probably go on to win it from there," admitted the Scot. "Even though they've got to go to Newcastle I think they would have a great chance.

"If we won we'd be strong favourites. Even with a draw we'd be favourites. No doubt about that. Two games to go, one at home and one away, we'd have to be happy with that.

"One thing, though, we won't be going to City just looking to make sure we don't lose."

Manchester United have already beaten Manchester City in the FA Cup at the Etihad Stadium this season.