Ferguson admits "good night" for Man Utd in title race

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson says last night’s victory over Stoke City was significant in the title race.

While Manchester City lost 1-0 at Everton, United beat Stoke 2-0 at Old Trafford to reel in the Blues and draw level on 54 points at the top of the table.

“It’s a good night for us, of course,” Sir Alex told MUTV moments after the final whistle had blown at Goodison Park.

“But what I’m most pleased about is our own performance. I thought our football was terrific. We kept our composure, we were very patient. Okay, we won with two penalty kicks but I think the manner in which we played our football was the most important thing.

“It’s still early doors [in terms of the title race]. It’s only the last day in January. I always say that March is a very important month, as well as the beginning of April. We play Manchester City in April, for instance.”

There’s a long way to go before that, and next on the Reds’ agenda is a trip to Stamford Bridge on Sunday 5 February. It’s a match for which Sir Alex hopes he’ll be able to recall a trio of players who missed the Stoke run-out on Tuesday night.

“We’re hopeful Wayne Rooney, Nani and possibly Ashley Young will be fit for Sunday,” he said.