Manchester United striker Hernandez wants Tevez revenge

Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez has admitted that he has personal score to settle with Carlos Tevez ahead of this evening’s eagerly awaited Manchester derby.

Tevez scored in both legs of the Carling Cup semi-final between the sides last season and Sir Alex Ferguson will be hoping that his side can prevent his former player from having a major influence on proceedings at Eastlands.

Hernandez, however, has his own reasons for wanting to make it a miserable night for Tevez, as he was part of the Mexico side that suffered a controversial exit at the hands of Tevez’s Argentina in the last sixteen of the World Cup in South Africa during the summer.

Tevez scored two goals in a 3-1 win for Argentina, but the first of those should have been disallowed as Tevez was clearly offside, something that the Mexico players were made aware of thanks to replays that were shown on the big screen in the stadium in Johannesburg.

‘El Chicharito’ is aware that Tevez will be City’s key man in this evening’s encounter, but is still confident that United can prevail against their bitter rivals.

"I have a sporting matter to resolve with Tevez,” Hernandez told The Sun.

“At the World Cup, Mexico were defeated by Argentina amid such controversy so now is the best moment to return the score.

"We know Tevez is the key man in the derby - we need to stop him to reduce the danger in our penalty area.

"He's been out injured but, even so, he always seems to offer a big performance in these situations."

Hernandez has only been a United player for a short time, but he already recognises the significance of the derby, in terms of its importance to the title race and to the fans of both clubs.

"The important thing is victory for United. But I am living a dream in England and if I play in the derby and score it will be incredible," he said.

"I can sense from the dressing room the importance of this derby and also I have noticed the atmosphere in the streets.

"It all adds up to a special match and any footballer should give 200 per cent to play in this one.

"Apart from anything else it is vital for both sides to take three points. Actually, to beat City in their own stadium would really be like winning four points - an extra one for the damage it will cause to City's morale if they lose."

Hernandez added: "United have suffered from the absence of key players but we are prepared for the battle and go into it without fear.