Fergie plotting a title charge

SIR Alex Ferguson is convinced Manchester United have the strength required to pursue a third successive Premier League title.

United entertain Middlesbrough at Old Trafford tonight knowing the first two months of 2009 not only bring action on four fronts but also the games in hand that could see them close in on current pacesetters Liverpool and Chelsea.

How the Red Devils emerge from such a packed programme will determine their chances of emulating last term’s success.

And, while Ferguson accepts his side are facing a tough task, he is sure United will not fail for lack of available bodies.

“There is an interesting challenge facing us but I am confident we can cope,” said the United chief.

“We have not taken this on blindly. I have been planning for this pressure by creating a squad that gives me options and the manpower to make changes without weakening the team.

“Our pool of players is getting stronger, as the younger lads mature and come into the squad at a level where I can play them, knowing they will perform.

“We have a good strong squad and if we can go into the new year only a handful of points behind the leaders then we have a good chance of winning the Premier League again.”

Ferguson might test that strength in depth for his side’s second game in three days following United’s return to the Far East after being crowned World Club champions.

Brazilian full–back Rafael may be introduced into a youthful defence missing both Rio Ferdinand, who is resting a worrying back problem, and Patrice Evra, who serves the second game of a four–match ban.

Changes are almost certain in midfield, so the main interest will surround the possible return of record signing Dimitar Berbatov, who travelled to Japan but picked up a virus en–route that ensured he played no part in the tournament itself.

Ferguson has already expressed his hope the game is completed free of controversy after a number of spats in recent years.

Midfielder Paul Scholes endorses that opinion, even if he is not sure his manager’s wishes will come true.

With United battling at the top and Boro equally desperate for points at the bottom, the need to get a result might take over once the action starts.


Neville salutes crucial victory

GARY NEVILLE believes Manchester United’s victory over Stoke at the Britannia Stadium should be seen as “significant” as they bid to retain the Barclays Premier League title.

Carlos Tevez scored seven minutes from time to end 10–man Stoke’s hopes of a point and keep United on the shoulders of Liverpool and Chelsea at the top of the table.

It was just the result United wanted as they are playing catch–up after winning the Club World Cup in Japan.

Club captain Neville said: “We are delighted with the win – it is a really important and significant win for us.

“While we were away in Japan our rivals did not pull away, so this result against Stoke is massive. It could be a vital victory in the context of the championship.”

United took advantage after Stoke were reduced in number when Andy Wilkinson was dismissed in the 72nd minute, having received two yellow cards.

Tevez scored from close range 11 minutes later after substitute Dimitar Berbatov crossed from the right of the six–yard box.