De Bruyne has last laugh over United mates

Kevin De Bruyne was happy to get the last laugh over his Manchester United-supporting mates with his devastating derby display.

The Manchester City playmaker scored twice and was player of the match as the Premier League leaders thrashed their neighbours 4-1 at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

The victory restored the champions' six-point lead at the top and gave Belgium star De Bruyne extra reason to look forward to returning home, where he had been hosting visitors over the weekend.

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"I had a load of friends come over from Belgium and three were United fans, so they were trying to keep me awake all night, so I wouldn't sleep the night before!" laughed City's midfield ace.

"Now I can go home and have a good laugh with them. It's banter - but I'm obviously very happy."

Yet, despite the commanding win ensuring City remained in control of the title race, De Bruyne is well aware that second-placed Liverpool are refusing to give up the chase.

The champions of 2020, who have won their last seven, have a game in hand and a trip to the Etihad Stadium to come next month.

Asked if that April 10 clash could be decisive, De Bruyne said: "Yes, it could be, but it's so far away - there's a lot of important games in between.

"A lot can change between now and then so I'm not necessarily watching out now for that game.

"It never stops does it? But it's good. We push each other to be the best version we can be. All we can do as a team and as individuals is try to win every game.

"Hopefully in the end we'll win it, but there's still a long way to go."

The title race has similarities to the thrilling contest between the two clubs in 2019, which City ultimately edged by 98