Manchester United's academy is just as strong as Arsenal's, insists manager Sir Alex Ferguson.

Fergie said: "We have now given eight players from our Academy debuts in the first team this season. That's fantastic for a team challenging for honours the way that we have to.

"So the similarities are there strongly. And the history and traditions of both clubs have always been the highest.

"For years now we have looked over our shoulders at Arsenal and they looked over their shoulders at us.

"Now, we have Chelsea banging on the door and, this season, Liverpool are making a big effort.

"So, it is a very, very competitive league but ourselves and Arsenal over a long period have certainly been the dominant forces in English football."