Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick says they're in prime shape to haul in Premiership leaders Chelsea.

United and England midfielder Carrick, 28, claimed the Red Devils have the class and the know-how to make Premier League history.

"We certainly won't take our foot off the pedal now," said makeshift defender Carrick. "We're starting to play well - and we are scoring some goals, too."

Sir Alex Ferguson's men entertain Aston Villa tomorrow in a rich vein of scoring form.

And Michael Owen gave a timely reminder of what he has to offer with a midweek Champions League hat-trick against Wolfsburg.

Carrick said: "There's an awful long way to go and we are not getting carried away.

"But we have been there before and we know what is required. It is about doing the business now."