Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand is delighted with their 100 per cent record during the festive period.

United's title challenge has certainly been aided by a positive run of results over the festive period which has seen the Reds stretch the lead over Manchester City to seven points.

"We have had a good period, but we have to continue that in the New Year," Ferdinand told PA Sport. "It was important for us to get the points on the board - this is always an important part of the year because the games come so thick and fast. You have to use your squad wisely. The manager has done that perfectly in this period. It is nice to finish it off and put the league away for almost two weeks now.

"Last year it was new [to have City as challengers] because it was the first time they had challenged properly and there was a lot of focus on Manchester. But we have to make sure we keep our own house in order, make sure we keep ticking off the games. We don't have to focus on anyone else, just ourselves."