Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is delighted with their table position at this stage of the season. Manchester City's failure to win at Stoke on Saturday means a draw against Fulham at Old Trafford on Monday night will be enough for United to reclaim top spot.

"We are in the right place, at the right time and, most importantly, with the right players," he told United Review.

"After weeks trailing in second place we got our noses in front and I am sure our players are ready to put the pressure on again.

"Our guys have been flogging away and perhaps wondering if they would ever catch up before we hit the finishing line.

"Well, we did and they are capable of going in front again as we battle it out with City. Neck and neck now and I'd say it was an ideal time to be up with the leaders with only nine matches to go in the race for the title."