Gill: United have not lost ground to Gunners

MANCHESTER UNITED chief executive David Gill has insisted the Red Devils' magic has not been eroded by the loss of the Premiership title to Arsenal.

United's dominance is under threat as the Gunners have continued where they left off last season by extending their unbeaten record to 45 matches, shooting them to the top of the table.

In contrast, Alex Ferguson's men have made a sluggish start, although they clicked into gear on Monday as they defeated old rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford.

Off the field though, United remain in a league of their own. The club are expected to announce strong end-of- year results on Monday and last week tied up a lucrative sponsorship deal with German car manufacturer Audi.

Gill is ready to launch a 'less is more' policy in sponsorship deals, cutting back on the number of commercial partners to make the United brand more lucrative to the investors they do deals with.

It's what Gill's predecessor Peter Kenyon is trying to secure for Chelsea although, without the history and fan base, parity could be difficult.

"Manchester United is as big a draw as they have always been," said Gill.

"The signing of Wayne Rooney signalled our intent and desire to remain at the top of European football and there is still a mystical image about the club.

"Our history and heritage have been built up over many years and are incredibly important to us. That's why we have millions of fans around the world and why companies from all over the globe want to associate with us. We have been in this position for many years and intend to remain there. Why wouldn't companies want to deal with us?"

Aside from shirt sponsors Vodafone and kit manufacturers Nike, United also have major deals with eight companies, including Budweiser, Pepsi and Ladbrokes.

Now the United board have decided it could be more profitable to reduce the number to try to ensure the companies they sign up with get maximum value from the association.

Meanwhile, Tottenham and Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane believes the critics have been wrong to write off Manchester United so early in the season.

Injuries and suspensions ensured United would be slow out of the blocks but Ferguson has Ruud van Nistelrooy, Rio Ferdinand and Gabriel Heinze ready to face Spurs tomorrow.

And with 32 matches still to play, Keane is adamant United cannot be discounted.

Keane said: "You can see they are a stronger team now than they were at the start of the season. They were awesome against Liverpool ... back to their best and they will always be up there with the players they have.

"United are always difficult to play against, although with the way both teams are playing it's a game to look forward to."