Manchester City vs Manchester United from a Tottenham Viewpoint

With one of the biggest Premier League matches, let alone Manchester derbies, of all time just hours away, it may seem a bit of a footnote on how the outcome may have an impact on the race for third.

Even supporters of Chelsea, Newcastle, or Tottenham may not have their clubs at the fore of their minds while watching the battle for Manchester.

After all, both the Red Devils and the Citizens are so far ahead of third placed Arsenal on points that even if one were to lose out, they would be assured of finishing second by at least eight points.

However, this match may actually have a great effect on the race for fourth.

Let's look at that effect from the point of view of the club currently sitting fourth in the league: Tottenham.

Spurs' form in the past few months has been abysmal.

Perhaps they got their legs under them against Blackburn, seeing as they defeated Rovers on Saturday in impressive fashion, but there is still reason for great concern.

I mean, Spurs are without a road victory in 2012, a worrying statistic seeing as they have two road matches remaining.

Hence, seeing as only one point separates them, Newcastle and Chelsea, Tottenham may need both of their rivals to drop points in these last few matches.

Luckily, with the two squaring off against each other on Wednesday, points must be dropped amongst one or both of them.

So what should Spurs supporters want in that match?

Well, a draw would obviously be the ideal result; both Chelsea and Newcastle would drop two points, giving Tottenham a bit of leeway.

However, what if a draw were not to happen?

With the form Chelsea are in right now, Spurs will probably need them to drop points here.

After all, a final day match with Blackburn (who will most likely be relegated by then) at Stamford Bridge is a clear win, leaving just two matches in which they could drop.

Hence, Spurs supporters would probably prefer a Newcastle victory here.

But what if they get there wish and Newcastle wins? Where will they drop points then?

Well, one good opportunity would be their match with Manchester City on Sunday.

In order for this to be a problem for Newcastle, though, City would need something to play for.

That brings us to today.

Imagine City loses to United; can you see them getting up for their match with Newcastle six days later with the title all but lost? I certainly can't.

Any other result besides this and City will have to come out as rampant as ever and, in all likelihood, prove the disparity in class by dismantling Newcastle. (That's no knock on Newcastle, just praise of City).

Thus, any result for Manchester City today, coupled with any result for Newcastle on Wednesday, will do a great amount of good for Tottenham's run into fourth.

Spurs supporters: get out your blue for the Manchester derby.

It may feel a bit strange given the recent history of the two clubs, as Tottenham and City have been battling for the final Champions League spot for the past two seasons, but it will be worth it.

Come on you Blues.