Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has dismissed Liverpool's challenge to Chelsea this weekend.

United boss Fergie said: "I don't think it's the most important top-of-the-table clash.

"When Arsenal play Chelsea could be more significant. There have been quite a few Chelsea and Liverpool 0-0s over the past few years.

"Sunday's game will be very tight, not many goals in it.

"But Arsenal could win there because they've got the quality to win."

United are six points adrift of Chelsea and Liverpool after dropping points at both the Bridge and Anfield.

They travel to Arsenal in a fortnight's time but Ferguson believes Christmas will be the crucial period of his side's season - after their gruelling trip to Japan to play in the World Club Cup.

And Fergie added: "It's interesting the bookies make Chelsea favourites for the title.

"I think the reason for that is that we've got the World Championship, when we're away for 10 days.

"Coming back from that is a test for us. We're back on December 23 and play Stoke on Boxing Day. That's where the title will be decided for us - how we handle that."