Manicini says United remain favourites for EPL title

Roberto Mancini says archrival Manchester United will still be favorite to take the Premier League title even if Manchester City wins Monday's crunch derby clash.

City can regain top spot on goal difference with two rounds of the season left with a win at the Etihad Stadium.

But Mancini, who looked relaxed and joked with reporters at a packed news conference Saturday, says City has difficult matches against Newcastle and Queens Park Rangers still to play, while United's remaining fixtures against Swansea and Sunderland are "easy."

Mancini has no injuries and has maverick striker Mario Balotelli available again after suspension.

The Italian manager says he is "proud" of the team's season so far and insists City "don't have anything to lose."