Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has refused to comment on last season's damaging 6-1 defeat to Manchester City.

The Scotsman is thought to have been probed by reporters on whether the heavy defeat has provided motivation for his side ahead of Monday evening's derby at Old Trafford.

"Do you think I'm going to mention that?" the Belfast Telegraph quotes Ferguson as saying. "Do you think..? Jesus Christ. I can talk about our form this season. I will concentrate on that."

United are poised to clinch the league title due to their 15-point lead over fierce rivals City.