A City fan who progressed through the ranks to the senior squad, lifting the FA Youth Cup along the way, ‘Lakey’ was a fans’ favourite at Maine Road and still very much beloved to this day.
In 1989, he was part of the squad which inflicted a Derby demolition of Manchester United - a 5-1 rout, fondly dubbed ‘the Maine Road Massacre’.
Mancunian born and bred and having experienced the highs and lows of Derby Day both on and off the pitch, the former midfielder knows full well the importance three points can hold.
So, what tunes does Lakey feel truly represent the clash? What will he be listening to in the build-up to the game?
Our City hero has selected his top ten Manchester Derby tunes - and you can listen to the playlist on Spotify below!
1) Setting Sun – Chemical Brothers ft. Noel Gallagher
“I always loved a rousing pre-match tune to get the blood pumping and the adrenaline flowing. If I was in City’s dressing room now, this song would be blasting out of the speakers...”
2) Sound of the Crowd – Human League
“The stadium atmosphere can be so influential on Derby Day, something that players and managers know all too well. This eighties’ classic from Sheffield’s finest says it all.”
3) Lovesong – The Cure
“This tune – one of The Cure’s best, I reckon – was climbing the UK charts in September 1989. Whenever I hear it I’m reminded of the 5-1 derby at Maine Road. One of the best days of my life.”
4) Strict Machine – Goldfrapp
“This song title echoes Pep Guardiola’s philosophy. His attention to detail is forensic, and although the team is awash with creativity he still expects order and discipline.”
5) I’ve Got A Feeling – The Beatles
“There’s nothing quite like that butterfly-in-the-stomach feeling on Derby Day, as fans and players alike hope that today’s going to be their day. I love the general vibe of this Let It Be album track.”
6) Hard To Beat - Hard-Fi
“Pretty self explanatory, this one. Nothing compares to Derby Day.”
7) Figure It Out – Royal Blood
“As always, both Manchester teams will be sizing each other up on Derby Day in order to exploit any weaknesses. Pep and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, along with their teams of analysts, will be primed for the challenge…”
8) Around the World – Daft Punk
“An audience of millions (or billions, maybe?) will be watching this game across the globe, such is the pull of the Manchester derby. Whether you’re in Stockholm, Singapore or Stockport, this one’s for you.”
9) These Days Are Mine – I Am Kloot
“City and United fans have witnessed some incredible derby victories over the years, which have provided moments to treasure and memories that will last a lifetime. The title of this song, from a top Manchester band, says it all.”
10) Know How – Young MC
“Having the nous to manage the occasion is key to success on Derby Day, and over the years the best teams have boasted a balance of youth and experience. If this track doesn’t get you buzzing for the big match, nothing will...”
