Fergie Rules Out Chelsea In Title Race

Last updated : 18 February 2009 By Sam
The United boss believe's Chelsea and Arsenal are out of contention but that Aston Villa may not yet be ruled out of the challenge just yet.

"I think they have played into our hands and that the title race now is going to be between ourselves and Liverpool," Fergie has told United Review.

"However, I shall be keeping a wary eye on Aston Villa, who seem to have picked up the baton from Arsenal.

"I was shocked that Chelsea should part so soon with a manager of such great experience and proven success as 'Phil' Scolari.

"Their haste is a reflection of the sad way the game is going, with everyone from owners, the board members, the supporters and the media demanding instant success and showing absolutely no patience in the pursuit of their ambition."

"I would have thought it self-evident that winning prizes comes with stability and long-term planning," he continued.

"Yet so often, when a club is faced with a few problems, wisdom flies out of the window in the hope that a new man can bring about a quick fix.

"Chelsea have called in a very experienced manager in Guus Hiddink and I am sure he will make an impact.

"At the same time, he has to start from scratch, perhaps putting together his own staff and gathering round him players of his choice which may take him some time."


League Table as at 18/02/09
PTeamPldWDLFAPtsGD
1Manchester United24175241105631
2Liverpool25159142175425
3Aston Villa25156440245116
4Chelsea25147444154929
5Arsenal25128538254413