Ferguson rules out title slip

Last Updated: Sat, 09 Feb 2013 15:33
Manchester%20United

Sir Alex Ferguson has warned his players they will feel the full effect of his "hairdryer" if they fail to secure the title.

As Manchester United prepare to welcome Everton to Old Trafford on Sunday, Ferguson's mind has wandered back to the corresponding fixture last season.

At that time, they were five points ahead of Manchester City and having established a 4-2 lead inside the final 10 minutes, looked to have one hand on a 20th title.

But Everton's astonishing comeback was followed by defeat at City the following week, allowing their rivals to seize an initiative that, despite that amazing last-day drama, they did not lose.

"If I had to pick out one single match where we lost our title it would have to be that game," Ferguson told United Review.

"What I can say is that it won't happen again - or if it does, then put it this way, they will feel the full effect of the hairdryer."

United's failure condemned them to a rare barren season.

Throughout a reign that stretches back to 1986, Ferguson has only had eight of them, including his first three years at the United helm.

It contrasts sharply with Arsene Wenger's experiences at Arsenal, who have won nothing since 2005 and was something Ferguson touched on during an exclusive interview with BBC's Football Focus.

When asked whether he could imagine going five years without a trophy, Ferguson replied: "It wouldn't happen. No chance. I don't believe I would."

With his side currently nine points clear of Manchester City, facing a home FA Cup fifth-round tie against Reading on February 18 and a mouthwatering Champions League encounter with Real Madrid looming, United are still on track to repeat their historic 1999 Treble campaign.

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