Ferguson looks for a helping hand

Sir Alex Ferguson watched his Manchester United side demolish Arsenal at the Emirates — and then invited Arsene Wenger to go to Stamford Bridge next Sunday and “batter” Chelsea.

United’s 3–1 win against the Gunners cut Chelsea’s lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League to just one point.

It also saw Wayne Rooney notch his 20th league goal of the season and his 100th overall in the Premier League.

Ferguson singled out Rooney as the main difference between the teams and also insisted he was confident the striker was happy at Old Trafford.

Ferguson said: “Rooney was unbelievable. He was the key player and they couldn’t handle him.”

Rooney still has more than two years on his Old Trafford contract but has been linked with interest from Real Madrid. United are thought to be preparing an improved deal.

Rooney’s goal came after a sweeping move involving Nani. Park Ji–Sung added another after Nani had set United on the way with a brilliant solo run which culminated in his chip being palmed into the net by Arsenal goalkeeper Manuel Almunia.

Arsenal scored a late consolation when Thomas Vermaelen’s shot was deflected home off the unfortunate Wes Brown.