Sir Alex Ferguson will rely on the competitive instincts of old mate Archie Knox to ensure Manchester United's title dream is not undermined by Bolton on Sunday.

United will secure a 10th Premier League crown - and a 17th overall - if they beat Wigan at the JJB Stadium.

The Red Devils could falter and still finish top if Bolton get a positive result from their last-day jaunt to Chelsea, who will start the final day level on points with Ferguson's team but with an insurmountable in the goal difference column.

While Ferguson maintains he is interested solely in his own team's performance and result, he has been irritated at reports that the Bolton squad have begun their post-season break early, celebrating survival achieved by beating Sunderland last weekend.

But he is also convinced Knox, his one-time United assistant having moved south from Aberdeen at the same time, will not have been too impressed at the attitude seeping out of the Reebok Stadium.

"I worked with Archie Knox for many years at Aberdeen and United and in a way, I wish he was playing," said Ferguson.

"He will not enjoy hearing his players have been out celebrating and neither will Gary Megson because this is an important game.

"All week, people have questioned the integrity of Wigan. No-one has even mentioned Bolton.

"Both teams are safe, relaxed and confident. But one can celebrate and the other is all keyed up to play against Manchester United. That difference in attitude amazes me."