Source: Team_Talk
Fergie expecting strong City challenge
Sir Alex Ferguson believes the biggest threat to Manchester United next season could come from their own neighbours Manchester City.[LNB] The Red Devils will be looking to earn a record-breaking 19th Premier League title next term after finishing a close second to Chelsea in the standings this year. [LNB]And United manager Ferguson, who accurately predicted Manchester City would not finish in the top four this year, is expecting their local rivals to present a more formidable challenge next term. [LNB]"They will be a lot stronger this time," Ferguson told The Mail on Sunday. [LNB]"With the experience of last year behind them they'll be better equipped to go for the title because they will spend big money again.[LNB]"Winning the title is going to be more difficult for anybody. This time it's been ourselves and Chelsea and Arsenal for a period, but I think we can all hear the horses' hooves galloping closer."[LNB]Ferguson is also expecting the competition to be more widespread next season, with more teams moving into contention. [LNB]"In addition to City, I'm expecting Tottenham to be in the mix as well," he added. [LNB]"I suppose the neutrals will welcome a situation where the competition is spread further as being good for the game. [LNB]"Of course I'm disappointed we didn't quite get there this season, but that doesn't mean we'll be making wholesale changes. [LNB]"I believe we are well placed to make another challenge next season. We have brought in some young players over the past couple of seasons and they're going to be a lot better this time. We also have tremendous experience in the side."[LNB]The United boss is hoping to make some signings ahead of the new season, but believes clubs could be left fighting for the top players. [LNB]"I'd like to make a couple of signings, but the market is very narrow," he added. [LNB]"There will be a few clubs trying to buy the same players and we all can't get what we want."
