Defence needs to improve — Fergie

SIR Alex Ferguson knows Manchester United must shore up defence if they are to challenge for the title.

The Red Devils have conceded five goals in their three opening Barclays Premier League games — two of them at St Mary's.

Ferguson's side were poor at the back during their 3–2 victory over Southampton, despite the return of Rio Ferdinand alongside Nemanja Vidic.

The once–formidable partnership looked shaky in their first game together since last December. Ferguson knows they need to improve.

"It is an important issue, there's no question about it," the United boss said.

Defensive frailties would have cost United had it not been for Robin van Persie making up for a poor penalty attempt with two goals in the final three minutes.

While Van Persie will take the headlines, Ferguson was quick to highlight the 61st–minute introduction of Paul Scholes as the game–changing moment.

"We worked all week on the strength of Southampton with their back post crosses and they scored two goals from it..

"Scholes came on and brought composure, a consistency of passing and made the difference."






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