Manchester City goalkeeper
Nicky Weaver
has hailed his Old Trafford counterpart Fabien Barthez as "probably the best in the world at the moment".
In the run up to the much-awaited derby clash between Manchester United and City, Weaver has also proclaimed the Maine Road club's rivals as the best team in the Premiership.
England under-21 international Weaver has particular admiration for French international Barthez.
In particular, Barthez' kicking ability which he believes is a major factor in Manchester United's success.
"I think he's a fantastic goalkeeper and he's probably the best in the world at the moment," said Weaver.
To be honest I think, if we won this game and didn't win another game all season, our fans would be happy.
"I knew he could kick it long, but I didn't realise how accurate he is.
"He sets up so many attacks and he's a bit like a quarterback.
"He gets the ball, drop kicks it out of his hands or punts it off the floor and he's very effective.
"I'm just hoping he does a grubber kick or something on Saturday!"
"I don't think we've really seen the real Barthez yet because United are that good he has not really been tested. Hopefully he will be tested on Saturday.
"He's won everything there is to win and so you can't argue with that.
"If I win half of what he's won in the game then at the end of my career I will be happy."
Weaver has had the chance of seeing Manchester United's main rivals Arsenal at first hand after City were beaten 5-0 by the Highbury side.
