Ferguson makes case for defence

Alex Ferguson is confident Manchester United’s defence will provide the platform for a record 19th league title this season.

United emerged from a potentially decisive day of Premier League action with the leadership retained thanks to their 2-1 win over Liverpool, and a four-point gap over former favourites Chelsea following their failure to beat Blackburn at Ewood Park.

Although Arsenal split the pair, just two points behind the Red Devils after playing the same number of games, the odds on an unprecedented fourth successive championship ending up at Old Trafford have started to tumble.

And, with the defence that was so ravaged by injury earlier this season now pieced carefully back together, Ferguson is looking forward with optimism.

“We have a very experienced back four and a very experienced goalkeeper. That gives us a real outstanding chance,” said Ferguson.

“There are seven difficult matches – but we have all got difficult matches, so what does it matter?”