Fergie rues Red Devils’ inconsistency

ALEX FERGUSON sends Manchester United into their must-win game against Charlton tomorrow admitting he expected to have second spot wrapped up by now.

After picking up just five points from their last four games, United are suddenly glancing anxiously over their shoulders at Liverpool.

Rafael Benitez’s men must win at Portsmouth to stand any chance of overhauling United in the battle to snatch the prized second automatic Champions League slot.

If Liverpool win, United will have to beat Charlton at Old Trafford.

“We wanted to have second place sealed by now,” acknowledged Ferguson.

“But Liverpool’s consistency means it has now gone down to the wire.”