Neither would you expect Eriksson to be remotely stirred by Ferguson's claim he had only heard of two of City's eight summer acquisitions, and that pair, Martin Petrov and Rolando Bianchi, as the Scot put it dismissively, "were on the radar screen for a long time". Nor would Eriksson be irked by Ferguson's estimation that the Swede already has to manage expectation, because City had spent "a bagful of money".

Yet, suggest that Ferguson had earlier claimed Eriksson had only accepted the job for financial reasons, and the mood darkens. "I don't want to discuss stupid things like that. I took this job because it's a big club and a big project."

In reality, Ferguson recognises he is confronted by a serious rival backed by serious money. For all the derision Eriksson received with England, he can boast many trophies at club level. Maybe not Ferguson's 36 with Aberdeen and United. But who can?

There is also history between this duo, notably over Wayne Rooney's fitness ahead of the World Cup, and the rumour Eriksson had been destined to become Ferguson's successor in 2002 . . . a key factor, it is said, in the Scot's decision to prolong his tenure. However, there will be respect from the latter, albeit begrudging.

On the surface, City will enjoy a rare headiness of spirit, starting today's derby with a four-point advantage, as well as the knowledge that the injured Rooney and suspended Cristiano Ronaldo are absent. They may even accept Ferguson saying: "Maybe this is just the start. Apparently this guy [Thaksin Shinawatra] has so much money, so who knows what is ahead? He might end up bringing in some higher-profile stars."

Like United's acquisitions, presumably? Eriksson merely promises: "I still want one to three players before the close of the window." Despite this revolution taking place at Eastlands, innate pessimism in the sky-blue psyche tends to run deep, and the faithful would acknowledge that victories over a woeful West Ham United and Derby County do not yet constitute a metamorphosis. It will require a convincing performance today . . . and during next Saturday's visit to the Emirates stadium . . . to confirm the early faith.

Eriksson conceded as much. "These games will tell me a lot more about my players than the first two we have played. That's why it's very important to keep your feet on the floor. I didn't think when I took the job people were comparing City with United. It's a dream to reach that level."

Perhaps, but rarely do City find themselves quietly favoured as the odd couple confront each other head on.