Robinho set to return for Manchester derby

(CNN) -- Brazilian star Robinho is set to play in his first Manchester derby on Sunday after recovering from an ankle injury.

The striker missed Manchester City's 2-0 UEFA Cup win at Schalke -- a big confidence-booster ahead of their clash with champions United at Eastlands.

Robinho has proved a valuable asset since his £32.5 million signing from Real Madrid, scoring eight Premier League goals, the latest in the 3-0 defeat of Arsenal last weekend.

City manager Mark Hughes also expects to welcome back defender Pablo Zabaleta after he was ruled out with a thigh strain, and Brazilian forward Elano, who stayed behind with his wife after she gave birth.

"The guys that we left behind we're very hopeful that they will be available for selection, Robby, Elano and Pablo have improved during the week so hopefully today that improvement will continue and they will be an option for me," Hughes told Associated Press on Friday.

But defender Javier Garrido is a doubt for Sunday after picking up a knock during the first half in Germany

United, looking to step up their title defense, will likely see the return of their own record signing Dimitar Berbatov, who has missed their last two games with a hamstring injury picked up on international duty.

The £30.75million Bulgarian returned to full training this week and manager Alex Ferguson must decide whether to include him in the starting lineup.

Paul Scholes will not be risked after recovering from a long term knee injury but Gary Neville (groin) could be available after missing the last fortnight.

City completed the double over United under Sven-Goran Eriksson last season.

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