Fergie rules out Utd slump

19 February 2009 09:14
Sir Alex Ferguson insists there will be no repeat of Manchester United's dramatic collapse of 1998 as they chase a hat-trick of Premier League titles.[LNB] The Red Devils moved five points clear of nearest challengers Liverpool on Wednesday night with a 3-0 victory over Fulham at Old Trafford.[LNB]Ferguson's men are eight clear of surprise package Aston Villa in third with Chelsea 10 behind and Arsenal a distant 15 adrift with 13 games of the season remaining.[LNB]The Scot claimed before the triumph over the Cottagers that he now saw the Premier League title battle as a two-horse race, with Rafa Benitez's men their only realistic rivals.[LNB]He was a little more circumspect after seeing his side tighten their grip on top spot, but believes United now have the strength in depth to hold off the competition.[LNB]Eleven years ago, Ferguson saw his side relinquish a 12-point advantage over eventual winners Arsenal as injuries bit hard in the closing stages.[LNB]ChangesThe riches at the Premier League and European champions' disposal was demonstrated against Fulham with in-form Ryan Giggs unable to even secure a place on the bench.[LNB]And Ferguson said: "You can never be dead sure but it is fair to say Chelsea have an uphill fight now.[LNB]"Things can happen. We were 12 points clear of Arsenal in 1998 but we got a lot of injuries and lost the league.[LNB]"Now we can cope with it, like we have done in the last few weeks.[LNB]"That is the change at this club. We have such a big squad we can make changes."[LNB]

Source: SKY_Sports