Sir Alex Ferguson has taken a dig at rivals Manchester City by suggesting that they have bought their way to the top of the table.

The Scot has stoked the fire as the two teams prepare to meet at the Etihad Stadium on Monday.

Ferguson said that the Red Devils have nurtured their talent rather than just splashed the cash.

"The difference is we have won things with very young players," said the 70-year-old. "But I don't want to make out that this match is between money and passion."

Manchester United currently lead the Citizens by three points at the top of the Premier League.