Indeed, with key Chelsea defenders John Terry and Ashley Cole absent, together with Wayne Rooney and Ashley Young returning for the visitors, Ferguson’s side must surely have felt confident, despite a 10-year streak without beating the Londoners at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League. As it turned out, Ferguson’s outfit was, perhaps, too confident.

True to Ferguson’s preferred script United controlled much of the first half, repeating the impressive possession game displayed both at Anfield last weekend, and against Stoke City on Tuesday night. Yet, with Villas-Boas’ side struggling to find any rhythm United was unable to translate territorial advantage into goals. Not unlike the previous two fixtures, United wielded a cutting edge that was decidedly blunt.

The visitors were to pay a heavy price for profligacy, after first Jonny Evans scored an unfortunate own goal, 10 minutes before half-time, then Chelsea struck twice more five minutes after the break. But no Ferguson side has ever been prone to throwing in the towel, even from a position seemingly beyond the bounds of possibility.

Even so, even by comparison to some great United comebacks, this was a resurgence rarely superseded in Ferguson’s 25 years at Old Trafford. It may have taken two disputed penalties to fire the Reds’ back into the game, but the verve with which Ferguson’s side attacked at 3-0 down compares to anything United has produced this season.

Yet, Ferguson is rarely one to celebrate a point gained, especially with a gap to Manchester City having now developed a lead at the head of the Premier League.

“The two penalties in the second half were justified. I think we could have had four in the game,” Ferguson told Sky Sports.

“They should’ve had a man sent off. Danny Welbeck’s clear through, brought down, but nothing, no decision. The linesman has given two penalties against as at Old Trafford in the last two years, one against Arsenal and one against Liverpool. 45 yards away and he gave them. I don’t blame Howard Webb, I blame the assistant. There was a pull on Ashley Young, inside the box, in front of the linesman and he doesn’t give it. Yet he gives them at Old Trafford.

“It’s two points dropped. We played so well, apart from the 10 minutes straight after halftime where we got off to a terrible start and lost two goals in five minutes. But, it’s not easy to come back from two goals down. That is a massive effort from our players. I thought we were the far better team. Once we got over those 10 minutes I thought we played very well. It was a massive effort from the team, and a great game. For a neutral watching that game it was fantastic.”

Ever the gambler, Ferguson threw on Mexican striker Hernández for Young with 35 minutes to go, pushing Danny Welbeck wide in the process. By the time Paul Scholes replaced Rafael da Silva just past the hour, United was attacking with six players. It was the same caution-to-the-wind attitude that had brought a thumping at home to Old Trafford earlier this season.

“We had to gamble. To be honest with you I perhaps should have played Chicharito from the start as when he came on he had the Chelsea defence under pressure with his movement and positional play,” added Ferguson. “Danny [Welbeck] was terrific and is going to be a top player but when Chicharito came on in the second half, it was a different game.”

Yet, the Scot was seen gesticulating from the sidelines as the Reds played out the final seven minutes plus injury time having seemingly retreated into a shell. Fergie had not rolled the dice only to see snake eyes comes up.

It could have been worse though, with Chelsea creating the better chances with five minutes to go. Indeed, the visitors were grateful to the much-maligned goalkeeper David de Gea for two outstanding saves late in the game.

“The save [by De Gea] from Mata’s free-kick was unbelievable. There were two or three other saves as well,” added Sir Alex.

“He’s played his part and I’m pleased as we can see the talent in the boy. In three or four years’ time we are going to see all of that but at the moment he’s made one or two mistakes but the introduction has been difficult for him. It’s not what he was used to in Spain. Today he showed that he is ready to get amongst it. He’s done a great job today.”

Ultimately though it was left to Rooney to sum up a match in which all could have been lost, yet, by its conclusion there was so much more to gain. The returning United striker’s movement, together with two well-struck penalties, were far too much for Chelsea’s makeshift back-four on a day in which United could have run up a cricket score.

“It’s two points lost,” Rooney told Sky Sports.

“We understand that, but after being 3-0 down – the City players at home must have liked that – we enjoyed the way we fought back. A lot of teams might have put their heads down and accepted defeat, but we never put our heads down, we carried on, worked hard and, thankfully, got something out of the game. We knew if we got one goal back there was enough time to gain something out of the game, so we dug in.”

Rooney called it a point that could “win United the title.” Yet, United face Liverpool at Old Trafford next Saturday, with away matches at Norwich City and then Tottenham Hotspur to follow a double-header with Ajax. It is a pivotal series of games, with City, by contrast, facing four winnable Premier League matches before hosting Chelsea on 19 March.

There’s no question, this was an outstanding fight-back, but come Monday morning Ferguson will understand that the Reds can afford to drop few points now. As the old cliché goes, it was a point gained; double the total lost.

The Scot will have no better chance, with Ferguson welcoming back a quartet of injured stars into the United squad. While Wayne Rooney makes his expected comeback, wingers Nani and Ashley Young provide welcome, if surprising, additions to the United party travelling south.

Not before time, supporters might add, with the Reds facing a tough run of games before the spring. United’s visit to Chelsea is followed by games with Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and the double-header against Ajax in the coming weeks.

“We’ve done very well away from home this season and we need to be good from now on,” Ferguson told Inside United.

“We’ve got some really important away games in the run-in – Chelsea, Tottenham and Man City. They’re going to be crucial games. Games at Chelsea in the last few years have been tough and we’ve had terrible luck there which has caused us disappointing results. The players know what they need to do. They know their responsibilities and the standard and expectation at the club, and they have to carry those things with them when they go into games.”

Injuries have provided a consistent backdrop to the season, with up to 11 stars sat out of matches in recent weeks. Indeed, long-term casualties Darren Fletcher and Nemanja Vidić will not play again this season, but Ferguson is close to bringing midfielder Tom Cleverley back into the fold.

But it is the defensive unit that the Scot will be most satisfied with. While Fábio da Silva remains on the sidelines, brother Rafael will compete with Chris Smalling and Phil Jones for a slot at right-back in Ferguson’s side. Indeed, with Rio Ferdinand fit, Ferguson can boast more defensive options than at almost any point this season.

“We’re a bit better in terms of injuries,” Ferguson confirmed on Friday.

“We hope Wayne Rooney, Nani, Tom Cleverley and Ashley Young will all be in the squad. It’s more likely Tom will play against Chelsea Reserves on Monday, but he’ll travel. Rooney and Nani have trained for the last two days.

“When Ashley got his injury at Fulham it was just at a point when his game was starting to shade a little bit because his early form was fantastic and we were really pleased with him. But there was just a couple of games before his injury when it looked as if we were ready to give him a break anyway. It was an enforced one and he is really fresh now. His training performances for the last two weeks have been really good.

“It is good to have players back because we have, in fairness to the players who have been carrying the burden of limited resources, done fantastically well. The only pressure when you get your full squad is on me picking the team now. That is the biggest pressure when you get them all back, who do you play and who do you leave out? It is not going to be easy.”

Much criticised goalkeeper David de Gea is likely to return between the posts after overcoming a heavy cold. Dane Anders Lindegaard is set to miss six weeks after turning his ankle in training, meaning an extended run in the side for young Spaniard de Gea. And Ferguson this week hit back at critics of the 21-year-old stopper, who was singled-out by some pundits for his part in Liverpool’s opening goal last weekend.

“When you make a mistake at United, it is highlighted and can be exaggerated a little bit,” said Ferguson.

“They are mistakes and he wants to address it himself. He will do so through maturity and the understanding of the English game. That is not easy. It is harder when you are replacing Edwin van der Sar and Peter Schmeichel. They are probably two of the greatest goalkeepers in European football over the last 40 years. I found it difficult to replace them. That’s why we went for a young replacement, who would develop and mature into the position because the potential is there.”

For the second time in a week United’s game will be played amid the backdrop of racism. United, and especially Patrice Evra, faced a partizan Anfield crowd in the FA Cup last weekend following Luis Suárez’ racial abuse of the United defender. Meanwhile, at Stamford Bridge, much of the pre-match talk has centered on John Terry, the Chelsea captain now stripped of a similar honour with England. Terry will face a July court date after being accused of racially abusing Anton Ferdinand.

However, with Terry still on the sidelines through injury, Anton’s brother Rio will not have to face the dubious prospect of shaking Terry’s hand pre-match – a diplomatic incident few bar those in the fourth estate would enjoy. Terry’s absence almost certainly means a début for England defender Gary Cahill, signed from Bolton Wanderers for £7 million during the winter transfer window.

Left-back Ashley Cole also misses out after being dismissed against Swansea in midweek, while Didier Drogba is still away at the Africa Cup of Nations. Manager Jose Villas-Boas will choose between Frank Lampard and the returning Michael Essien in midfield.

Despite the high-profile absentees Chelsea has history on side for this particular fixture. The Londoners are unbeaten in the last nine home league games against United, since a 3-0 defeat nearly ten years ago. Although Ferguson’s side has rarely enjoyed the rub of the green in that time, the Scot’s side has scored only three times in the past eight matches at Stamford Bridge.

United did, of course, emerge victorious in last season’s Champions League quarter-final, with Rooney scoring the only goal of the match.

However, Ferguson’s side boasts the best away record of any top-flight side – a remarkable turnaround from last season’s tortuous form on the road. And in Antonio Valencia Ferguson will also call on the league’s most in-form player. The Ecuadorian winger has provided nine assists in as many games.

Yet, it will still take a significant improvement in United’s form to close the gap on City this weekend. Following last weekend’s FA Cup loss to Liverpool, United beat Stoke City in midweek. That may have been a routine victory on paper, but the 2-0 win came after the Reds’ managed just two strikes on target – both penalties.

Match details
Chelsea verus Manchester United, Premier League, Stamford Bridge, 5 February 2012, 4pm.

Potential Line-ups
Chelsea: (4-3-3): Cech; Ivanovic, Cahill, Luiz, Bosingwa; Romeu, Meireles, Lampard; Mata, Torres, Sturridge. Subs from: Turnbull, Essien, Malouda, Ferreira, Piazon, Lukaku.

United (4-4-1-1): de Gea; Smalling, Ferdinand, Evans, Evra; Valencia, Scholes, Carrick, Nani; Rooney, Welbeck. Subs from: Amos, Kuszazck, Rafael, Jones, Fryers, Cole, Giggs, Park, Pogba, Hernández, Berbatov.

Performance Stats

• Chelsea could only take a point away from the side’s last Premier League game against Swansea City. Jose Bosingwa’s shot was going off target before Joe Allen deflected it in for Chelsea to equalise;
• Juan Mata covered the most ground for Chelsea in that game with 6.58 miles
• Bosingwa has won 72 per cent of tackles attempted this season, has made 44 interceptions, and delivered 47 crosses, while making three assists;
• Chelsea striker Fernando Torres may be struggling in front of goal, but his work rate is paying dividends for the team. The striker has attempted 38 tackles so far this season, the seventh highest in the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index;
• United scored two penalties to beat Stoke 2-0 on Tuesday night, with Michael Carrick coveringt he most ground – 6.65 miles – for the Reds in the game;
• Javier Hernández and Dimitar Berbatov each scored their seventh goals of the season from the spot after fouls on Ji Sung Park and Valencia;
• Berbatov’s goals have come from 14 attempts at goal, while Hernandez’ have come from 27 attempts;
• Park covered 6.36 miles in the game, behind only top runner Michael Carrick. Park has two goals and three assists to his name this season, and has also completed a pass in his opponent’s half every three minutes 40 seconds.

Form
Chelsea: WWWDWD
United: LWWWLW

Officials
Referee: Howard Webb (Rotherham)
Assistants: D Cann, M McDonough
Fourth Official: P Dowd

United’s record against Stoke at Old Trafford – eight wins in a row dating back to 1981 – suggests a routine three points. But with Ferguson’s players once again bruised by crushing defeat at the weekend, the Scot will do well to raise his troop’s spirits. Indeed, it is a season in which ‘recovery’ has been discussed far too often for some supporters’ liking: after heavy defeat to Manchester City in the league, when United crashed out of Europe, and now FA Cup disappointment.

Yet, Stoke, says Ferguson are unlikely to give United an easy ride at Old Trafford despite the poor record over the past 30 years in the Reds’ back yard.

“You know what Tony Pulis’ teams are like, they’re always the same with one hundred per cent commitment,” Ferguson told ManUtd.com.

“They all get stuck in and you have to cope with that. I quite enjoy that. When we used to play Wimbledon, at the beginning when they first came into our division, nobody enjoyed playing against them. But then I started and my team started to enjoy it because it was a challenge, a physical challenge in the way they played and a physical challenge in terms of trying to take control of the possessions and play your football.

“Stoke are a different team altogether from Wimbledon, obviously, but they still have the same quality of never giving in; they keep going, so it’s a good challenge for us.”

Ferguson is again without half a squad’s worth of injured players. Long-term injury victims Tom Cleverley, Michael Owen, Darren Fletcher, Fábio da Silva and Nemanja Vidic are definitely out. Meanwhile, United will also be missing Ashley Young, Nani, and Rio Ferdinand, while Wayne Rooney and Phil Jones are unlikely to be risked.

Uncertainty also surrounds Ferguson’s choice of goalkeeper. While the much criticised David de Gea phoned in sick this week, Anders Lindegaard left training  in a protective boot on Monday. The crisis may mean a recall to the squad for the long forgotten Pole Tomasz Kuszazck, who had been widely expected to leave the club this transfer window. Reserve Ben Amos could start.

Despite the ongoing injury crisis Ferguson maintained an upbeat mood this week, backing his players – especially the club’s much maligned midfield – to drive United towards a 20th domestic title come May. Indeed, in Tom Cleverley significant strategic hope is being placed, with United having failed to sign a midfielder of note for the past four seasons.

“Cleverley is doing a lot of running. He’s nowhere near the first team at the moment but he’s doing a lot of running,” confirmed Ferguson of the midfielder who has played just 58 minutes football since 10 September.

“Michael Carrick’s form has been unbelievable – he’s been playing fantastic – and we’ll also have Giggs, Scholes, Cleverley and Anderson, so that’s a great group of midfield players that will definitely help us. He’ll be a terrific boost. It will be great to get the boy back because I think he’s special.

“I expect (Young) to start training in the middle of the week, so he’s on his way back. Cleverley is two weeks behind that. Anderson will be ready this week, too. He’ll start training with us on Monday or Tuesday and then it gives me a collection of midfield players that should cope with anything that happens in the run-in.”

Meanwhile, Stoke arrive in decent form, some 12 points beyond the relegation zone, safety already assured for another season. But Pullis may be without winger Matthew Etherington who has a groin injury. Cameron Jerome could make his first start of the year after scoring last week.

Yet, for all Stoke’s progress the focus is squarely on whether United can remain in touch at the top of the Premier League. With Manchester City away at Everton there is a realistic chance that Ferguson’s men will gained ground on the Blues. But to do that, United must overcome both mass injury and the obvious disappointment of the past week.

“Every player at this club knows what’s expected. When you’re at Manchester United you know defeats like that aren’t acceptable. We don’t need anybody else to tell us that. We know it deep down,” adds defender Jonny Evans.

“We’ve played really well against Stoke in the last few games, both at home and away. I think we’ve dealt particularly well with their long throw-ins. There isn’t much of a run-up at Old Trafford on the side of the pitch, which will probably help us. We’ve beaten them comfortably over the last few seasons but they’re improving all the time and nobody ever looks forward to playing against Stoke.

“They have a different approach to the way most teams play. People have this preconception of them and think that because they’re a big side they’re a dirty side. But that’s not the case at all. I think they’re hard but fair and Tony Pulis goes out of his way to make sure they don’t cross that line.”

And that may well be a relief to the few remaining United players not yet injured! Yet, there is no doubt the fixture is pivotal to United’s hopes of silverware this season. Indeed, it is the first time in the Premier League era that United has been out of the Champions League and FA Cup by this stage of the season. Anything less than a comfortable win tonight is unthinkable.

Match Facts
Manchester United versus Stoke City, Premier League, Old Trafford, Tuesday 31 January 2012, 8pm.

Potential Line-ups
United (4-4-1-1): Amos; Rafael, Smalling, Evans, Evra; Valencia, Scholes, Carrick, Park; Hernández, Welbeck. Subs from: Kuszazck, Fryers, Cole, Giggs, Lingard, Pogba, Keane, Berbatov.

Stoke (4-5-1): Sorensen; Wilkinson, Huth, Shawcross, Wilson; Pennant, Palacios , Whitehead, Delap, Walters; Crouch. Subs from: Begovic, Wilkinson, Whelan, Jones, Fuller, Etherington, Jerome.

Performance Stats

• United kept pace with league leaders City with a 2-1 victory over Arsenal in the last Premier League game at the Emirates;
• Michael Carrick covered the most ground for United in that game with 6.06 miles, while Antonio Valencia and Danny Welbeck scored for the Reds;
• Valencia’s goal was just his second of the season, but the winger has also contributed an impressive eight assists;
• Valencia has the joint second highest number of assists and the fourth best minutes per assist in the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index, with one every 139 minutes;
• Ryan Giggs has the best minutes per assist rate in the league, with an assist every 117 minutes (seven in total);
• Welbeck’s goal was his sixth of the season in the Premier League from 34 attempts. He has achieved 74 per cent of shots on target, the third best percentage on target (among players who have had more than twenty efforts at goal);
• Nani has now delivered over 100 crosses for United (105), topping the Index, 28 crosses ahead of second place Sebastian Larsson;
• Meanwhile, Stoke’s last Premier League outing was a 2-1 defeat at the hands of West Bromwich Albion;
• Peter Crouch covered the most ground for Stoke in that game with 5.8 miles;
• Cameron Jerome scored Stoke’s goal in that game – just his second Premier League strike of the campaign.

Form
United: LLWWWL
Stoke: DWWDLW

Officials
Referee: Mike Jones (Chester)
Assistants: P Kirkup, A Garratt
Fourth Official: C Foy

Indeed, City manager Roberto Mancini was thankful for some overly generous refereeing decisions, and Spurs’ inability to finish chances, for the 3-2 victory in east Manchester. Meanwhile, United traveled south to face an Arsenal side that had been the country’s in-form outfit until recent defeats to Fulham and Swansea City. The Reds emerged with a stunning victory in the capital.

City’s plentiful resources, together with United’s ongoing – and lengthening – injury list dictates that Mancini’s side remains logical favourites for the title. But United’s manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, and his players emerged from the Arsenal encounter with confidence sky-high, believing that the ‘noisy neighbours’ can be reeled in before the season is out.

“It was important to win after City had won their game, but the manner in which we won was the more pleasing thing for me,” admitted Ferguson.

“I think we won in the right way – we played really adventurous football, we were positive and had great belief in ourselves. I’m delighted to see that at this important time in the season. What we need to do is stay on City’s coat-tails. Football is a funny game. The game at City today tells you things can happen and there will be changes [before the end of the season]. We’ve just got to stay on their coat-tails.

Should United stay in touch, both sides will look to the derby on 28 April at Eastlands as a potentially title deciding encounter.

In the meantime, United dominated against Arsenal for long periods, although the Londoners’ attacking response after half-time almost gained Arsène Wenger’s men a result at the Emirates. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s youthful verve and Robin van Persie’s predatory finishing brought the Gunners back into the game. For a moment, with defeat a real possibility, United stared at the precipice. The ensuing six point gap, had Arsenal won, would surely have handed City the title.

But as the momentum swung back in United’s favour on Sunday afternoon, with Wenger aiding the process by removing Arsenal’s best player in Oxlade-Chamberlain, the Reds’ confidence visibly grew. By the time Danny Welbeck lashed home from Antonio Valencia’s mazy run and cut back, there was no doubt about whether United would leave the Emirates with three points.

Ferguson gambled on an attacking formation, despite so few resources at his disposal, and came up trumps once again. The victory leaves United’s players believing that domestic title number 20 will be lifted at Old Trafford in May.

“I think (our gameplan) was to go straight forward, it makes a lot of pressure on the left-back and the right-back and that’s what we did,” captain Patrice Evra told Sky Sports.

“It was a good performance from the team. I think in the second half there were 15 minutes where Arsenal played very well, but we kept strong and had good shape, and after we scored a nice goal. The most important thing for us was to win. Three points were really important if we want to win the title.

“I always say the league is not a sprint, it’s a marathon. We are still behind City but we have to keep going, keep winning games and I’m really confident in the team because everyone is working really hard and when we play with the United spirit it is difficult to beat us.”

Victory was United’s eighth on the road this season; a record that is five points better than any other team in the division. It is a series all the more remarkable for United’s poor form away from Old Trafford last time out. And the prevailing mood among the United squad now appears to be one of remorseless pursuit, ensuring that each victory brings pressure to bear on the club’s title rivals.

“I think we had the tougher game because it is always more difficult to go away, and we’ve got the three points,” added veteran midfielder Paul Scholes.

“There’s still three months of the season to go and hopefully we’ll be in the right place when the time comes. Obviously City are going well at the minute but we are only three points behind and funny things can happen towards the end of the season. We just have to make sure we look after ourselves and get the right results.”

That goal is not helped by the ongoing injury problems at the club. Long-term absentees Tom Cleverley, Nemanja Vidić, Michael Owen, Darren Fletcher and Fábio da Silva missed the trip south. As did defender Rio Ferdinand, whose back problem has flared up once again. History dictates that the veteran could be out for anything from days to weeks.

Further bad news came during the game when Phil Jones turned over his right ankle. Ferguson confirmed that the £16.5 million former Blackburn Rovers defender will miss “weeks” of the season after damaging ligaments. It could not come at a more inopportune time, although Jones’ injury is hardly surprising given the heavy workload the teenager has faced this season.

Worse still, Michael Carrick played through the second half with a tight hamstring, while Nani did not complete the game after hobbling off with a late ankle problem. The Portuguese winger left London in a protective boot.

Add potential injury to Wayne Rooney into the mix and Ferguson is likely to heavily rotate his team for the FA Cup fixture with Liverpool next weekend. It leaves United to cope, once again, without a plethora of stars. Yet, the ongoing injury problems have seemingly galvanising Ferguson’s squad spirit. Them against us, has become us against the world.

Indeed, injury aside, there were few downsides to victory in London. Ferguson’s team emerged from the Emirates not only with the points, but a genuine sense of momentum in the title race. City may have also won earlier in the day, but Mancini’s side was more than a little fortunate to do so. Add Mario Ballotelli’s inevitable lengthy ban for stamping on Scott Parker’s head, and the Blues could face yet more pressure.

“Soon enough, if we keep ticking these wins then they’ll crumble,” added defender Chris Smalling, who was immense as Jonny Evans’ central defensive partner in London.

“It was a massive win for us. Even at 1-1, we all knew that we really needed to win this game because of what happened earlier, and I think we showed real character.”

It is the very same character that may bring Old Trafford the Premier League trophy come May. Much against the odds and prevailing wisdom.

Yet, with United just three points behind City in the Premier League, Ferguson knows that momentum is now crucial to United’s chances of overhauling the crosstown neighbours. However, the Reds may again have to make do without a plethora of key players for the Trotters visit. While long-term absentees Tom Cleverley, Nemanja Vidić and Darren Fletcher are definitely missing, Ferguson also has concerns over a trio of stars. Chris Smalling, Anderson and Phil Jones will face late tests before facing relegation threatened Wanderers.

Even if the trio makes it, Ferguson is aware that United must perform with far more intensity than against Blackburn, or indeed, during the second half of FA Cup victory over City last weekend.

“We’ve got one or two doubts for tomorrow,” admitted Ferguson on Friday.

“Smalling and Jones picked up knocks in the derby. We’ll see what they’re like tomorrow. Anderson got a knock in training, but hopefully he’ll be okay. So we’ve got a reasonable squad for tomorrow.

“We need a good performance against a team that will battle for everything. Any team near the bottom of the table will do that, as we experienced at home to Blackburn. We went into the Blackburn game with respect for them but it wasn’t a great performance. We have to address Bolton’s challenge properly. These clubs are fighting for their existence and we expect just the same from Bolton. It’s a local derby too, which adds something to it.”

Yet, anything less than three points against Bolton is unthinkable, with Ferguson believing that it may take anything up to 90 points to take the Premier League this season. With just 18 games to go, United may not be able to drop more than nine points during the run-in. Indeed, with the Reds to face Arsenal, Chelsea, City and Tottenham Hotspur away from home, Ferguson may yet live to regret the six points lost over the Christmas programme.

“The main difference I can see this season is that City have amassed a bigger points total than Chelsea or Arsenal would normally have managed by this stage,” added Ferguson.

“Their first half of the season was fantastic, and the way it’s going we could be looking at something approaching 90 points to win this league. It could certainly be a number in the high 80s, and that is surprising really, because in recent seasons more teams have been taking points off each other.

“Two or three years back there was definitely a tightening up of the league. It became a bit harder and instead of four teams battling for the top positions you had six, with Manchester City and Tottenham coming into the reckoning as well. That makes it far more interesting for the spectators and neutrals.”

With points at a premium Ferguson is likely to stick, largely, with the team that won at Eastlands last week. The Scot will again find a place on the bench for Paul Scholes. However, with Phil Jones looking in desperate need of a rest, Jonny Evans could find a place in defence, the Northern Irishman’s fitness permitting. Anderson, desperately needing minutes, could start his first Premier League match this year.

Meanwhile, defender Rio Ferdinand is likely to be fit despite a midweek stomach bug. The veteran defender says that beating City in the FA Cup last weekend was the perfect boost to an injury-hit United squad that had suffered defeats to Blackburn and Newcastle United the week previously.

“You always know there will be ups and downs during the season,” said the 33-year-old former Leeds United defender.

“We had a bad week the one before [the City game], losing two games. But there is no better game to come back than Manchester City. It was a great first-half. In the second we took our foot off the gas and let them back in the game, but the result is the most important thing and we got through to the next round.

“Hopefully Manchester City and Tottenham will experience lows that go on a lot longer and we can get a few players back from injury and push on. If any other squad in the league had the same amount of players out that we have had, they wouldn’t be sitting where we are. That speaks volumes for our squad and that’s why when I am in the changing room I’m more than happy with the people I see around me.”

The opposition arrives under severe pressure to put points on the board, with the Trotters firmly inside the bottom three. And with key defender Gary Cahill set to move to Chelsea this week, manager Owen Coyle’s job is unlikely to get any easier. Yet, having secured a 2-1 victory over Everton at Goodison last time out, Coyle’s men arrive having moved off the foot of the Premier League at least. Coyle is also boosted by ‘keeper Jussi Jaskelaainen’s return after the Finn missed the last two games with a thigh injury.

Yet, with Bolton having won at Old Trafford just once in the past decade, history is firmly in United’s corner. United has won 12 of the last 14 meetings with Bolton, and hasn’t lost to the Trotters since September 2007.

Indeed, defeat to Bolton would be the third league loss in a row – that hasn’t happened for more than 10 years, and even then, the Reds had already won the league by 10 points.

Match Facts
Manchester United versus Bolton Wanderers, Premier League, Old Trafford, Saturday 14 January 2012, 3pm.

Potential Line-ups
United (4-4-1-1): Lindegaard; Smalling, Evans, Ferdinand, Evra; Valencia, Carrick, Anderson, Nani; Rooney. Subs from: De Gea, Fryers, Cole, Giggs, Fabio, Rafael, Jones, Park, Lingard, Diouf, Keane, Hernandez, Welbeck, Berbatov.

Bolton (4-5-1): Jaskelaainen; Riley, Knight, Wheater, Robinson; Eagles, Muamba, M Davies, Reo-Coker, Petrov; Ngog. Subs from: Bogdan, Lynch, Pratley, Tuncay, K Davies, Klasnic, Lainton, Steinsson, Ricketts, Blake, Boyata, Vela, O’Halloran

Performance Stats

• Manchester United stumbled to a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Newcastle in the club’s last Premier League match;
• Michael Carrick covered the most ground for united in that game with 5.88 miles. The midfielder has covered 62.45 miles so far this season, averaging 5.2 miles per game. He has also completed 244 passes in his opponent’s area, averaging one every four minutes;
• The goals conceded against Newcastle were the first Anders Lindegaard has conceded in the Premier League. The United ‘keeper had made 28 saves in six appearances for United before then;
• Wayne Rooney has retained the position of the top ranked player in the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index for most of the season;
• Rooney has hit 13 goals so far this season from 73 efforts at goal with 67 per cent on target. Only Robin van Persie has had more shots at goal, but the Dutchman’s on target percentage is lower at 61 per cent;
• Rooney also has four assists to his name, has completed a pass in his opponent’s half every three minutes, and covers, on average, 5.9 miles per game;
• Meanwhile visitors Bolton beat Everton 2-1 in the side’s last Premier League fixture, with Gary Cahill scoring the winner in what may have been his last game for the club;
• Cahill has won 36 of 50 tackles so far this season, a success rate of 78 percent, and he has made an 134 interceptions, 29 clearances and 15 blocks;
• Striker David Ngog was also on the scoresheet with his second Premier League goal for the Trotters, coming from 21 efforts at goal.

Form
United: WWWLLW
Bolton: LWLDWD

Officials
Referee: Peter Walton (Long Buckby)
Assistants: S Ledger, D C Richards
Fourth Official: S Attwell

Even if Redknapp’s side remains third favourites in an increasingly three-horse race, only the foolhardy will now discount Spurs altogether. After all, while the Londoners face a tough couple of months – hosting United, and visiting City, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea – Redknapp’s men will enjoy nine winnable games to end the season. If the north London side remains in touch of the leaders after the fixture with Chelsea on 9 March, Redknapp’s outfit could well pick up a first title since 1961.

It’s a remarkable turnaround in a season that began poorly amid the acrimony surrounding star midfielder Luka Modrić’s and his potential transfer to Chelsea. Injuries and poor form saw Spurs pick up just X points from the first 10 games.

And now, says Redknapp, the pressure will be on City, with the two sides clashing at Eastlands on 22 January in what could yet be a pivotal tie in the title race.

“The pressure is on Man City [because of] their squad and the money they have been able to spend,” said Redknapp after Spurs’ win over Everton on Wednesday.

“They are expected to be there and win. We are just hanging in there at the moment and playing well. Nothing’s impossible. I wasn’t there but someone said William Gallas came in the other day and said to everyone: ‘Listen, we have a chance here’. You have to keep believing and apart from that I enjoy the way we play. If you don’t enjoy the way we play, then you shouldn’t be watching football.

“We don’t put pressure on the players [but] we are playing well, playing with smiles on our faces. We had a bad start to the season. I’ve been around football clubs long enough to know when there’s a good feeling or a bad feeling. We had bad pre-season, we had problems off the pitch with Luka Modrić and injuries in midfield.

“Then we bring in Scott Parker, who I’d been chasing for months, and Emmanuel Adebayor arrives and Luka gets sorted out and suddenly we look a different team and we’ve not looked back since then.”

The chastening 5-0 defeat to City in August, just hours before United thrashed Arsenal 8-2 at Old Trafford, did not deflate Redknapp’s belief though as Spurs picked up momentum through the Autumn. But with United having beaten the London side 3-0 at Old Trafford earlier this season Redknapp’s side will have to turn around poor results against the division’s leading sides if it is to stay in touch over the next 10 weeks. While the Londoner’s form is outstanding, few supporters will be genuinely shocked if Redknapp’s side drops points against other contenders in the coming weeks.

It is a challenge Redknapp believes his team can meet, especially with Spurs facing no further European commitments this season. Indeed, in Sir Alex Ferguson, Redknapp has an ally in the belief that the London side can pick up the title this season, despite United’s experience and City’s vast sovereign wealth. Insisting that Arsenal and Chelsea are out of the title race, Ferguson claimed that “Tottenham can definitely win it They play the best football in the country and their current form is the best in the country.”

However, genuine doubts surround the size and scope of Spurs’ squad, together with the complete lack of experience in Redknapp’s outfit when it comes to challenging for titles. Injuries to key players including Modrić, together with Bale and in-form Emmanuel Adebayor could scupper the challenge. Roberto Mancini will be grateful that Premier League rules preclude the Togan facing his parent club in a fortnight’s time. Meanwhile, the Italian will be without the Touré brothers and potentially Mario Ballotelli, and David Silva for the clash, each of whom has suffered injury in recent weeks.

The same could be said of United too though, for whom injuries continue to bite. With Paul Scholes back in the squad, Ferguson is unlikely to rush Tom Cleverley back into action, while Anderson is still short of match fitness and Darron Gibson is likely to be sold. In defence captain Nemanja Vidić will not return until next season, meaning that any further injuries to Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans in particular could seriously impact United’s chances.

All of which adds up to a fascinating run-in, shorn for the first time in years of both Arsenal and Chelsea. It is a race in which there is no clear favourite although Mancini’s outfit currently holds a three point lead, and a healthy goal difference advantage.

Yet, just as United threw away points against Blackburn Rovers and Newcastle in recent weeks, so will City and Spurs in the weeks to come. Mancini’s ability to prevent a mini blip – four defeats in eight games – turning into a full-blown crisis will be key to the Blues chances.

For Redknapp, simply maintaining the side’s recent form will be a bonus.

United’s injury problems are still significant, but the United manager should welcome back veterans Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs to a starting 11 that failed so conspicuously against the Premier League’s bottom club on Sir Alex’ birthday. The duo will add experience and defensive nous, while defender Chris Smalling could also return after a bout of tonsillitis.

Ferguson must also choose between embattled goalkeeper David de Gea, who made mistakes against Blackburn, and Dane Anders Lindegaard.

Ferguson’s line-up is also likely to include Wayne Rooney, the errant striker who was dropped by Ferguson for Blackburn’s visit. Rooney, reportedly aggrieved at his treatment but willing to accept a huge fine, is likely to partner in-form Dimitar Berbatov at a venue that has been a happy hunting ground for the Reds in recent seasons. United has not lost at St. James’ Park for a decade.

But Newcastle’s improvement under Alan Pardew this season, despite losing key players in the summer, means that it is unlikely to be anything but comfortable in the north east, even if the home side’s form has tailed off over the Christmas and New Year period.

“We’re trying hard to get Rio Ferdinand and Ryan Giggs back which would make a good difference to us,” Ferguson confirmed.

“Anderson should be better. He had 45 minutes on Saturday after four months out. Wayne Rooney will be available, of course. We had a few training sessions which he missed. You’ve got to be fit to play in this league, you can’t miss training sessions.”

However, Ferguson once again ruled out signings to patch up a United team that has tasted heavy derby defeat and been dumped out of the Champions League at the group stage. United’s loss to Blackburn on Saturday was only United’s second defeat of the league campaign – both at Old Trafford – but taken in totality the Reds are now out of two competitions, behind in the league and facing the club’s greatest rivals, away, in the FA Cup.

Ferguson says that the players United might want are not available in January, moving on from a previous assertion that there is ‘no value in the market.’

“The reason there may not be many big signings in January is because the players clubs want are not available,” Ferguson said.

“To be honest with you, who would want to sell their best player in January? I don’t see it happening. There are cases of players whose contracts are running out in the summer but they won’t get the same money anyway. It’ll be well reduced. We don’t need to do anything until the end of January. We can take our time with that one. We’ve got, say, three weeks before we can make up our mind.”

Ferguson may well be right, although the statement ignores previous deals United has struck for Patrice Evra, Nemanja Vidic and Andy Cole, among others. But the likelihood that United will fight it out with City for the Premier League and FA Cup without adding to a midfield that has sorely failed at times this season is concerning.

However, Ferdinand says that United’s experience will serve the side well as the season moves into its second half. The United defender, in his 10th season at Old Trafford, was in fine form before a long-standing back injury flared up again in the past fortnight. Ferdinand is likely to partner Phil Jones or Smalling in the centre of defence, with Michael Carrick returning to central midfield.

“It’s all about doing it. Many players in our squad have done things but this is the most important one. It’s not about remembering the past, it’s about trying to create more history and be a part of the history of this club. I’ll be honest – and it pains me to say it – but it was probably one of the best things that happened to us.

“We’ve got a crazy amount of injuries and illnesses, yet we’re still managing to get the results and long may that continue. The most important thing is the way the squad is playing now. The manager has said at the beginning of the season it’s not about 11 men. Since we went out of the Champions League we’ve shown a great resolve in our squad.”

That resolve is likely to be tested again, with Newcastle resurgent this season even if the side’s recent form has tailed off. Although the Geordies lost 3-1 to Liverpool last week, Pardew’s lies comfortably in the Premier League top half based on a sound defence, and the potent attacking threat of Demba Ba. This could mean Ferguson is tempted to beef up his central midfield, or deploy Park Ji-Sung in one of the wide berths.

Meanwhile, Alan Pardew will deploy Ba and Cheik Tiote for the final time before the Africa Cup of Nations, which begins in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea on 21 January. However, Pardew is definitely without Danny Guthrie and Peter Lovenkrands, neither of whom has recovered from injury in time for the fixture.

“Looking at Manchester United’s recent games, teams that have sat back have got thumped,” Pardew admitted.

“They’ve got such talent in their ranks, they’re going to cause you problems but we have a striker in form and a central midfield pairing that I think is as good as theirs. Our back line and goalie have been resolute all year, so we’re in a good position to try and attack the game. It’s important to retain the ball against United, to make them work but it’s also important we make sure we offer a threat.”

Former United winger Gabriel Obertan should be fit for the tie with his former club. The Frenchman has featured regularly this season despite two frustrating years at Old Trafford. Indeed, the 23-year-old has broken into the French squad after the £3 million move to the north east, and could make the plane for Euro 2012 later this summer. It’s a far cry from the occasional aimless appearance in Red.

And Obertan will hope to put one over his former employers while turning around Newcastle’s recent form. The Toon has lost four of six league games since snatching a draw at Old Trafford in November.

Match Facts
Newcastle United versus Manchester United, Premier League, St. James’ Park, Wednesday 4 January 2012, 7.45pm.

Potential Line-ups
Newcastle (4-5-1): Krul; Simpson, Coloccini, Williamson; R Taylor; Obertan, Cabaye, Tiote, Ben Arfa, Gutierrez; Ba. Subs from: Vuckic, Elliot, Santon, Perch, Best, Sh Ameobi, Sa Ameobi

United (4-4-1-1): De Gea; Jones, Smalling, Ferdinand, Evra; Valencia, Carrick, Giggs, Park; Rooney; Berbatov. Subs from: Lindegaard, Rafael, Fryers, Anderson, Nani, Pogba, Cole, Diouf, Hernandez, Welbeck.

Form
Newcastle: LLDLWL
United: WLWWWW

Performance stats

• Manchester United was brought back to earth after successive 5-0 victories over Wigan Athletic and Fulham, with a 3-2 defeat to Blackburn Rovers last weekend;
• Nani covered the most ground for United in that game with 4.9 miles, the sixth time the Portugese winger has been the player to cover the most ground for United this season. He has now covered 108.2 miles for United this season, more than any other United playe;
• Despite the result, one positive is Berbatov’s remarkable scoring record since returning to the United starting line-up. The Bulgarian now has six goals in three games from just eight shots at goal, an incredible conversion rate of 75 per cent;
• The streak has sent Berbatov rocketing up the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index to 135th place, a movement of 189 places since last week;
• Patrice Evra completed more passes in his opponent’s half than any other player in the Index in the last round of games, with 51 in total. Evra’s passing performance puts him in the top 20 for a single game this season;
• Meanwhile, Newcastle suffered a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Liverpool last time out, and will be hoping for a better return in front of home fans;
• Cheick Tiote, the subject of transfer speculation, covered the most ground for Newcastle in that game with 6.33 miles. The Ivory Coast midfielder has now covered 89.9 miles for Newcastle in 12 appearances;
• Tiote has also won 56 per cent of tackles attempted this season and made an impressive 31 interceptions.

Officials
Referee: Howard Webb (Rotherham)
Assistants: D Cann, J Collin
Fourth Official: M Atkinson

Indeed, United can grab a three-point lead with victory over the Premier League’s rank no-hopers, offering Ferguson a very happy 70th birthday, which the legendary manager celebrates on New Year’s Eve. The Scot should welcome Phil Jones and Rio Ferdinand back to the match-day squad, but is still likely to field an experimental back-four for Blackburn’s visit to Old Trafford.

Despite the patchwork nature of the Reds’ defence in recent matches, Ferguson will be confident of celebrating his special day in style, with United having scored 10 in the past two fixtures. And Ferguson’s belief is undiminished despite the ongoing injury crisis, with the Scot prepared to push players into unfamiliar positions if necessary.

“Obviously injuries to the defenders are quite a concern now, with Jonny Evans taken off at half-time [against Wigan Athletic],” confirmed Ferguson.

“We’re hoping Phil Jones will be fit, there’s possibly an outside chance that Rio Ferdinand will get on the bench. Other than that, we’re the same. We can cope, especially in home games. Michael Carrick’s form has been one of the key points in recent wins. He can pass the ball and has the height, pace and experience.

“It wasn’t a problem for him against Wigan. He was flawless. Patrice also has the experience and the spring to head the ball. If that is the case then fine. We will get on with it. We are at home. We will have the majority of the ball. We have to make sure we are positive when we have it and do enough to win.

“Chris Smalling has got tonsillitis. I know there are reports about glandular fever but they’re off the mark. He had glandular fever as a kid but that’s not the case here. He should be ready for the Newcastle game, at least definitely the Manchester City game in the FA Cup. He’ll be ready for those games.”

Jones returns to bolster Ferguson’s side, although the 19-year-old may play in central midfield, with Michael Carrick once again likely to fill in at centre-half. With Antonio Valencia probably starting ahead of Rafael da Silva on the right, Ferguson will field at least two players out of position against a Blackburn attack containing in-form Yakubu Aiyegbeni.

Meanwhile, in midfield Ryan Giggs may start a second game in a row, with Darron Gibson and Park Ji-Sung also in contention. Mexican striker Javier Hernández may come into attack – despite Dimitar Berbatov’s hat-trick on Monday – with Ferguson keen to rotate his squad over a busy Christmas and New Year period. Indeed, the Bulgarian may not be afforded the opportunity to repeat his five goal haul in United’s 7-1 victory in the same fixture last season.

Whatever the team selection it is a period in which the Reds will surely emerge as the Premier League front-runners, beginning 2012 leading the pack, and with the experience to bring home a 20th domestic title come May.

“We have plenty of options in attack and I’m pleased with the form,” added Ferguson.

“Hopefully we can keep the momentum going. The form is good and the players are enjoying themselves too. It’s only the end of December. We surrendered a 12 point lead to Arsenal some years ago and won the title despite being 12 points behind Newcastle. Last year, in November, Chelsea were so many points clear that they were odds-on. But they hit a bump and we took over.

“So I think, with some of the games coming up in the second half of the season, you can’t say for certain that’s going to be the case [Arsenal and Chelsea are too far behind to win]. The difficulty for them is they’ve got to overtake three teams so, unless the three teams collapse, only that will be an opportunity for Arsenal or Chelsea to take advantage of. As for Spurs, I think they play the best football in the country. The current team, in the form they’re in at the moment, is the best in the country.”

However, with City facing tough fixtures within a 48 hour period against Sunderland and Liverpool, Ferguson will consider the next few fixtures pivotal in the Premier League campaign. While the Scot may look enviously at City’s plentiful resources, Ferguson, 70 years young, will thrive on placing the Blue half of Manchester under pressure in the coming days.

It is Ferguson’s level of experience in the arena that Welsh legend Ryan Giggs says will be vital before the campaign concludes in May.

“The experience that the manager, the players and the coaching staff have of what’s required in the second half of the season, as well as the overall hunger and desire to win competitions, will help us,” Giggs told ManUtd.com.

“Big players can’t wait for big games. Towards the end of the season the games just get bigger and bigger. For me personally, you want that in the run-in – you want to be involved in big games and going for the title. That’s why you become a footballer. Obviously City have got off to a better start but we’re pleased with where we are in the table and especially the form at the moment. We’ll just look to kick on as we always do in the second half of the season and hopefully we’ll have a bit more luck with injuries and have a strong run after Christmas.

“We’ve had setbacks throughout the years and you learn from them and they can help in a way. I’ve experienced that throughout my career – you might hit bad form or you miss a good chance, and you can’t wait for the next game so you can rectify it. I’m sure all the lads felt like that after the City game and after the Basel game, which was a big disappointment too. You’re going to get setbacks but it’s how you react to them and thankfully we’ve come back strong.”

Meanwhile, a thumping United win could yet relieve Kean of his Blackburn job before the New Year. Kean’s inevitable dismissal at some point this season will disappoint fellow Scot Ferguson, who has publicly supported the younger man.

Kean will bring his embattled troops to Old Trafford wit a plethora of key players doubtful for the fixture, including Paul Robinson, Martin Olsson, David Dunn, and David Hoilett. Ryan Nelsen, Gaël Givet and Vince Grella are definitely out. Meanwhile, Scott Dann’s twisted testicle will not be fit for action, of any kind, until January.

And to stretch the analogy, this is a fixture that, even in its current state of fitness, United surely cannot balls up.

Match Facts
Manchester United versus Blackburn Rovers, Premier League, Old Trafford, Saturday 31 December 2011, 12.45pm.

Likely Line-ups
United (4-4-1-1): De Gea; Valencia, Carrick, Evra, Fryers; Nani, Jones, Giggs, Park; Rooney; Hernandez. Subs from: Lindegaard, Rafael, Pogba, Cole, Diouf, Macheda, Berbatov, Welbeck.

Blackburn (4-5-1): Bunn; Lowe, Samba, Hanley, Henley; Nzonzi; Petrovic, Pedersen, Formica, Vukcevic; Yakubu. Subs from: Kean, Morris, Rochina, Blackman, Goodwillie, Roberts, Blackman, Anderson.

Form
United: WLWWWW
Blackburn: LWLLLW

Performance stats

• Manchester United joined Manchester City on xxx points, and went a long way to equalling the goal differential with a 5-0 win over Wigan on Monday;
• Dimitar Berbatov proved that he still is of use at United (or of value in the transfer market) with a brilliant hat-trick. Berbatov now has four goals in the Premier League this season from just eight shots at goal. His minutes per goal rate of one every 70 minutes 45 seconds has now surpassed Edin Dzeko’s as the best in the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index;
• United’s other goal scorers Ji-Sung Park and Antonio Valencia have also spent spells on the sidelines this season. Valencia completed 49 passes in his opponent’s half against Wigan, the second highest of any player in the last round of games and just one short of Luka Modric. He also delivered 13 crosses, the highest on the last round, and the second highest in any game this season;
• Another United player resigned to ‘squad’ status, Darron Gibson, covered the most ground for United in that game with 5.71 miles;
• Nani has now put in more crosses than any other player in the Index with 74, one every 19 minutes 11 seconds. It’s the fifth highest in the league, discounting players who have put in fewer than ten crosses;
  No fewer than five United players were named in the Index team of the week after the victory over Wigan: Lindegaard, Giggs, Valencia, Nani, and Berbatov;
• Meanwhile, Blackburn’s tough start to the season was given a boost by a point at Anfield in the club’s last Premier League outing;
• Morten Gamst Pedersen’s cross led to a Liverpool own goal to secure the 1-1 draw, and the Norwegian covered the most ground for Blackburn in that game with 7.3 miles, the 8th time he has done so this season. This was also the most ground covered by a single player in the Index in the last round of games;
• Yakubu has scored ten goals so far this season, with a conversion rate of 33 per cent shots to goals, the best in the Index;
• Christopher Samba remains the player to have made the most clearances in the Index with 58 clearances so far this season. Samba’s 11 against Liverpool was the most made by a single player in a game so far this season, while his 23 interceptions was the fifth highest of any player in the league so far this season;
• Stand-in goalkeeper Mark Bunn impressed in the draw at Anfield, and his 13 saves was the joint highest in the last round of games and the joint third highest by a goalkeeper all season.

Officials
Referee: Mike Dean (Wirral)
Assistants: D Richardson, R West
Fourth Official: L Probert

United faces a Wigan side still in the bottom three but in much improved form over the past month. Martinez’ side held Chelsea at home 10 days ago, and then Liverpool in midweek. Yet, absences notwithstanding, this is a fixture that United always wins, and with title rivals Manchester City facing a tricky fixture at West Bromwich Albion, United could top the league by Saturday evening.

Defender-cum-midfielder Phil Jones is likely to make the fixture despite coming off with a suspected fractured jaw against Fulham last week. The youngster will partner in-form Michael Carrick in central midfield once again.

But if United struck lucky with news that the 19-year-old’s injury was far less serious than initially diagnosed, the loss of Ashley Young to an ankle problem is another blow in a period when United has been hit hard by absences. Meanwhile, long-term victims Tom Cleverley, Anderson, and Michael Owen are unlikely to return until well into the new year.

Rio Ferdinand is again unlikely to feature, but Rafael da Silva could come into the side for his first game of the season.

“We have good news on Phil Jones: he should be okay for Monday,” confirmed Ferguson.

“He has some swelling in his jaw but there’s no break, no fracture, which is good news. We feared the worst because he lost his vision a bit in that period when he came back onto the field. Thankfully it’s good news.

“It’s not so good for Ashley Young. We’re still waiting on some of the bleeding to go away, which is quite extensive at the moment. It was a sore one so he’ll be out for a few weeks. Ashley was tripped as he went into the next tackle. He wasn’t positioned to go into that next tackle – he was half-falling at the time. The second tackle was a hard tackle – not a bad tackle – it was just the way he went into Ashley. He’s taken a real clump.”

“There’s not great news on the other ones – Michael, Tom and Ando are still on the sick list. But Rafael played in the Reserves last night, which will help him. As we get one back, we’re losing one. It’s not an easy spell for us but we just have to get on with it. The squad has handled the situation quite well. The form has been really good and I’m pleased with that. We’re scoring goals again, which is terrific.”

Despite the injuries this season Ferguson insists that he will not dip into the transfer market in the coming window. Blaming “blogs and Twitter” for the current concern about the state of United’s squad, the 69-year-old manager says that while money is available for transfers he does not believe his squad needs strengthening.

It is a contentious argument – one that supporters who witnessed last season’s humiliation against Barcelona, or indeed, the more recent calamitous defeat to FC Basel might contradict. In truth, few bar Ferguson believe that the manager’s state-of-mind is influenced by anybody but the club’s parsimonious owners. The word emanating from European clubs and agents is that United has no money to spend this winter.

“The criticism has been understandable,” added Ferguson.

“You lose a derby game 6-1, you’re knocked out of the Carling Cup and you lose to Basel, who aren’t a powerhouse. You can understand the criticism. But we show the resilience and determination to do something about it, each time it happens. That says a lot about the character of the team.

“All things being equal, I am perfectly happy with the strength of our squad in terms of depth, quality and age range,” Ferguson added in his programme notes for Monday’s game. “I will not be swayed by the endless tweets and blogs urging the club to get busy in the transfer market next month.

“As far as I am concerned I am marching perfectly in step, true to my beliefs and principles. While recruiting some of the world’s leading players can lift you into contention for honours, it doesn’t necessarily take you all the way, as I hope we will be able to demonstrate before the end of the season as other factors come into play.”

Ferguson’s stance will raise a few eyebrows, as will the Scot’s assertion that Carrick is now United’s pivotal player in a midfield that has struggled to dominate matches against superior opponents in recent seasons. But if United is to win a 20th domestic title in May then Ferguson is set to do so with his current squad, and victories over Wigan and others near the relegation zone are a must. United faces Wigan on Monday, followed by Blackburn Rovers at Old Trafford on Ferguson’s birthday, New Year’s Eve.

“I watched Wigan versus Chelsea the other day and I thought Wigan were terrific,” added the Scot.

“It says a lot for Roberto Martinez – he continues to play good football irrespective of what position they’re in. We have a good record against Wigan but we won’t take anything for granted. We need to keep out foot on the pedal. I don’t think they’re a relegation team. They do well against the bigger teams. Last year, I think they lost heavily to Chelsea and, this season, they got a draw and could have won. I think Wigan will stay in the Premier League.”

Meanwhile, Wigan make the short trip to Old Trafford without Steve Gohouri, who has flu. Striker Hugo Rodallega faces a late fitness test – the Ecuadorian picked up an injury during Saturday’s draw with Chelsea and then featured, injured, against Liverpool.

For one United player the Latics’ visit is a special occasion. Antonio Valencia joined United a little over two years ago, and with Young set to remain on the sidelines for several weeks, is once again a key part of the Reds’ attack this season. The winger has found a renewed spell of form in recent matches after suffering a genuine confidence problem earlier in the season.

“They’ll always have a special place in my heart,” Antonio told United Review.

“I came here from abroad and I was taken in as one of the family from the first day. It was a real special group of players that we had in those few seasons there, and it was great to be a part of. I have only have gratitude and fond memories of my time there. I still speak regularly with Maynor Figueroa, who is a close friend of mine.

“I do look out for their scores. I know at the minute they’re by no means out of danger, but they’re working hard and they’ve picked up some decent results recently and let’s hope they can get up there and be fighting for ninth or tenth place.”

Few will expect that fight to begin against United on Boxing Day though. The Reds have won 13 of 13 encounters during the Premier League era. Indeed, goal difference and the opportunity to close the gap to title rivals City may well be on the agenda.

Match Facts
Manchester United versus Wigan Athletic, Premier League, Old Trafford, Monday 26 December 2011, 3pm.

Likely Line-ups
United (4-4-1-1): De Gea; Rafael, Smalling, Evans, Evra; Valencia, Jones, Carrick, Nani; Rooney; Welbeck. Subs from: Lindegaard, Fryers, Park, Pogba, Cole, Diouf, Giggs, Macheda, Berbatov.

Wigan (4-5-1): Al Habsi; Alcaraz, Caldwell, Stam, Figueroa; McCarthy, Gomez, Diame, Jones, Moses; Rodallega. Subs from: Watson, Sammon, Di Santo, Pollitt, Lopez, Crusat, Watson, McArthur.

Form
United: LWLWWW
Wigan: DWLWDD

Performance stats

• United hit five past Fulham in the last Premier League game, with the Reds out running Fulham by 64.75 miles to 64.53 miles;
• Michael Carrick has a tackles won rate of 96 per cent this season, and covered the most ground for the Reds with 6.56 miles against Fulham;
• Jonny Evans made six clearances in the game against Fulham, the highest of any player in the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index in the last round of games;
• Ryan Giggs was on target against Fulham, and continues his record of scoring in every Premier League season. Giggs has made just six shots at goal this season, but has contributed 174 passes in his opponent’s half, along with 10 dribbles and 10 crosses, leading to an impressive five assists. That’s an assist every 106 minutes, the second most frequent provider in the league;
• Meanwhile, Wigan gained a valuable point against Liverpool last week, with midfielder James McCarthy covering the most ground with 6.33 miles;
• Goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi was the Index’ busiest goalkeeper in the last round of games, making 11 saves.

Officials
Referee: Phil Dowd (Staffordshire)
Assistants: G Beswick, S Ledger
Fourth Official: A Taylor

In the second of a London double-header this week, United aims to keep pace with rivals Manchester City at the head of the Premier League. Ferguson’s side briefly led the title race on Sunday and will return to first place in the unlikely event that the Blues slip to defeat against Stoke City, and United win at Craven Cottage. And while Ferguson will include fit-again Javier Hernández and Dimitar Berbatov in his squad, key players Anderson, Fletcher, Tom Cleverley and Nemanja Vidić miss the trip.

United won comfortably at Loftus Road on Saturday, and with Fulham’s form mixed in recent week’s Ferguson’s men will be confident of securing a first Premier League victory at the Cottage since March 2008. Indeed, Ferguson may well select an unchanged side for the fixture. But it is the heavy defeat two years ago, in which Wayne Rooney saw red and United shipped three, that Carrick remembers vividly.

“I remember the game two years ago, though not that well!” says the Geordie midfielder, who has returned to form in recent weeks.

“It was just one of those situations: we had no defenders left so me and Fletch played at centre-half. “I’d played there for two or three matches before that and we’d won, but that was probably one game too many. It wasn’t a great day for us.

“Fulham have had an up-and-down time this season, but they beat QPR 6-0 at their place and have had some other good results. We know they’re a strong team: they’re well organised and Craven Cottage is a tough place to visit, but it’s a good, old-fashioned football ground and we look forward to going there.”

Carrick will again provide the fulcrum around which Ferguson will build his central midfield. The Geordie has suffered intermittent form over the past two years, including two traumatising losses to Barcelona in the Champions League. But the 30-year-old’s revival in recent weeks has provided some confidence at a time of severely depleted midfield resources.

While United is slowly coming through the rash of injuries in recent weeks, Ferguson has once again included youngsters Larnell Cole, Ezikiel Fryers and Ben Amos in the party. Federico Macheda also traveled south with the squad, although is still likely to leave on loan after the Christmas programme. Paul Pogba was seemingly left in Manchester despite encouraging words this week about the Frenchman’s future at Old Trafford.

Patrice Evra will again captain United, having been vindicated late Tuesday night, when the Football Association handed down at eight-match ban to Luis Suarez for using abusive and racist language in United’s fixture with Liverpool in September. With the weight now off his shoulders United fans will hope for better performances from the 30-year-old, whose form has dipped in recent months.

Meanwhile, former Fulham player Chris Smalling, who has impressed since a £12 million transfer to Old Trafford in 2010, returns to his old stomping ground, grateful for the break received in professional football. Four years ago Smalling was with semi-pro Mainstone United in the Isthmian League, before transferring to Fulham.

“I see my time there as a big two years,” Smalling told ManUtd.com.

“My first year was about finding my feet and the second was about showcasing what I can do. Without Roy Hodgson giving me my chance there I wouldn’t be here so it’s a time I look upon fondly. It’ll be nice to go back and see a few of the players and play back at the Cottage.

“The players always look forward to this time of year with plenty of games. We’re used to the demands and it’s a big opportunity to pick up a lot of points – we want to get maximum points. Christmas can be a hindrance on some and can sometimes make or break you in terms of kicking on, but this is a period where we really need to kick on and show everybody we mean business.”

Meanwhile, Fulham manager Martin Jol welcomes back Bobby Zamora after the striker missed the win over Bolton Wanderers last weekend with injury. However, former Red Simon Davies will miss the game, as will Steve Sidwell, Zdenek Grygera and goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer. Jol’s side has scored just 18 goals in 16 league matches this season – six in one match – highlighting the Zamora’s importance.

Despite dropping out of the Champions League, and the Reds intermittent form since defeat to City in September, United’s 39 points from 16 matches is five better that at the same point last season. Ferguson’s side has won three additional games and scored more goals to boot. Few will bet against United adding to the tally on Wednesday.

Match Facts
Fulham versus Manchester United, Premier League, Craven Cottage, Wednesday 21 December 2011, 8pm.

Likely Line-ups
Fulham (4-4-2): Stockdale; Baird, Hangeland, Senderos, JA Riise; Dempsey, Murphy, Etuhu, Dembele; Zamora, Ruiz. Subs from: Etheridge, Kelly, Hughes, Gecov, Duff, Frei, Sa, Johnson, Briggs, Somogyi, Kasami.

United (4-4-1-1): De Gea; Smalling, Ferdinand, Evans, Evra; Nani, Jones, Carrick, Young; Rooney; Welbeck. Subs from: Lindegaard, Fryers, Park, Pogba, Valencia, Cole, Diouf, Giggs, Macheda, Berbatov.

Form
Fulham: DLWLDW
United: DLWLWW

Performance stats

• Rooney and Carrick were on target as United beat QPR 2-0 on Sunday at Loftus Road. Rooney’s strike was his 12th goal of the season, a return from 66 efforts at goal;
• Meanwhile, Carrick’s goal was his first of the Premier League season, and came from an all-action performance in which the midfielder covered more ground than any other United player with 5.78 miles;
• Despite United’s upturn in results, Ferguson’s side now has only two two players in the EA SPORTS Player Performance Index‘ top twenty – Rooney and Nani;
• Despite criticisms that he is no longer the player he once was, Rio Ferdinand has done more than any other United player defensively with 57 across tackles, blocks, interceptions and clearances. That’s one every 17 minutes 59 seconds;
• Carrick is the next United player in the ranks for most frequent defensive contributions with one every 18 minutes 38 seconds;
• Clint Dempsey and Bryan Ruiz scored within two minutes of each other to seal a 2-0 win over Bolton in Fulham’s last Premier League outing;
• Fulham out-ran Bolton with 62.18 miles to 61.48 in the game, with striker Bryain Ruiz covering the most ground with 6.4 miles followed by fellow scorer Demsey with 6.24 miles;
• The pair were rewarded for a goal and an assist each in that game by moving up in the Index. Ruiz climbed 47 places and Dempsey 30;
• Dempsey’s goal was his fifth in the Premier League from 59 shots at goal, the fourth highest shots total of any player at one every 29 minutes 12 seconds.

Officials
Referee: Mark Halsey (Welwyn Garden City)
Assistants: R Ganfield, D C Richards
Fourth Official: P Walton