Manchester United midfielder Ryan Giggs has insisted that Monday's Premier League clash with Manchester City "is a massive game."
The veteran, who has featured in 35 Manchester derbies, also admitted that these are the types of games that give him the desire to remain playing football.
"These are the sort games which I am still involved in football for. Obviously with three games to go and almost being neck-and-neck going to the finish there is no mistaking this is a massive game and the biggest in recent times," the 38-year-old told reporters.
"But as a United player you're used to big games. You have to block out all the hype and the predictions. That's been going on all the season anyway, with people saying City were going to win the title and then United.
"It's different for the fans. I must admit it's hard but you have to be professional and not let emotions get too far ahead of you."
United lead City by three points at the top of the Premier League.