Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits slipping up at this stage in the season could prove costly.

After defeat to Liverpool and Fulham, Ferguson said: "As I've said, when you lose games in March and April it can cost you.

"Fortunately we have a slender lead at the moment but it's not a lot. Obviously I'm hoping we go away for the internationals and come back at our best.

"We've got a home game against Aston Villa in our next game and that's absolutely crucial."