Down to a three-horse race for title, says Fergie

ALEX FERGUSON has no doubt his long-standing belief that the title-winners will come out of the leading pack on New Year’s Day will prove to be correct once again.

The Manchester United boss has set his team the task of clawing back some of Chelsea’s nine-point lead over the festive season as they launch their bid to clinch a ninth Premier League title.

With five wins, one draw and 18 goals from their last six outings, United are the Premiership’s form team and will be heavy favourites to improve that record on St Stephen’s Day when they entertain Bolton, who have just lost four games on the trot.