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. 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. 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. "They will be a lot stronger this time," Ferguson told The Mail on Sunday. "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."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."Ferguson is also expecting the competition to be more widespread next season, with more teams moving into contention. "In addition to City, I'm expecting Tottenham to be in the mix as well," he added. "I suppose the neutrals will welcome a situation where the competition is spread further as being good for the game. "Of course I'm disappointed we didn't quite get there this season, but that doesn't mean we'll be making wholesale changes. "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."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. "I'd like to make a couple of signings, but the market is very narrow," he added. "There will be a few clubs trying to buy the same players and we all can't get what we want."

Source: Team_Talk