Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes to finish in the top four of the Premiership will take a major effort this campaign. The Red Devils finished second in the standings last term, just a point behind champions Chelsea as they just fell short in their quest for a fourth successive title.
Tottenham claimed that all-important fourth spot last season ahead of Manchester City and Ferguson believes the likes of Aston Villa and Everton will also mount a serious charge.
"Things definitely changed last season - it was a different league altogether compared to what we'd seen before," he told the club's official website.
"The top four found it difficult and dropped points in games they wouldn't have expected to.
"That's an indication of the improvement made by other teams, and I think there'll be a bit of a dogfight for the top four places this season.
"We all have to be aware of the threats from the likes of Villa, Everton, Tottenham and Manchester City - they'll all be challenging to get into that top four."
