Pep plays down prospect of derby-day title win

MANCHESTER - Pep Guardiola on Monday tried to play down growing excitement among Manchester City supporters over the possibility of winning the Premier League title when it faces bitter rival United in the derby early next month.

Jose Mourinho's side visits Etihad Stadium on April 7 for a game which could see City make mathematically certain of being crowned champion following its 2-0 victory at Stoke on Monday.

First, City must win its visit to mid-table Everton and, should it do so, Guardiola will win his first league title in English soccer with a win over his old rival Mourinho.