Sir Alex Ferguson's horse entered into British Grand National

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson is set to have a runner in the British Grand National - on the day his team hosts Manchester City in a crucial derby match.

Trainer Paul Nicholls announced on Tuesday on Twitter that Harry The Viking has been entered into the grueling steeplechase at Aintree on April 6.

But Ferguson won't be able to attend one of the highlights in the international racing calendar, unless the match against City is shifted by television schedulers to the following day.

In the English Premier League title race, United holds a five-point lead over City, which beat Ferguson's side to the trophy on goal difference last season.

Ferguson owns the 8-year-old Harry The Viking with three others.