Ferguson: admire us

SIR Alex Ferguson admits Manchester United’s lost of the Premier League title to City last season provided added incentive to get it back.

If United overcome relegation-threatened Aston Villa at Old Trafford tonight, it will give them a record 20th championship with four games remaining.

“We had a big job to do,” said Ferguson. “The way we lost it, and the fact it was City, gave us an incentive. You have to admire the focus we have shown this season. We are resilient; consistency has been good.

“It is the history of the club more than anything. Once they have been here two or three years, the players buy into it. These qualities have helped them to be where they are now.”

Not that Ferguson will be declaring the season over, even if champagne corks are popping in the dressing room.

The Scot intends to keep his men driving to beat Chelsea’s final tota; of 95 points in 2005.

“There won’t be any slacking off,” said Ferguson. “The record is not beyond us at all. Can Manchester United win five games in a row? How many times have we done that?”