Ferguson warming to neutral support

Sir Alex Ferguson is slowly coming to terms with the notion that Manchester United are the neutrals' choice to win the Barclays Premiership this season.

With many fans becoming disillusioned with Chelsea's unmatched spending power and their perceived negative tactics, they are starting to consider the unthinkable and actually cheer on United in the two-team title race.

"The neutrals do want us to win," said the Scot. "It will take me a long time to get used to that but I am working on it."

So far, the extra support is bringing dividends, too, with United currently eight points clear of the Stamford Bridge outfit.

Chelsea can cut the gap when they host Newcastle in their game in hand on Wednesday, although it appears certain United will enter the festive period with a healthy lead.

Yet Ferguson, a veteran of eight previous title-winning campaigns, is refusing to get carried away and showed no inclination to rise to the bait offered by Mourinho, who has claimed the Red Devils would be "in big trouble" if they believed the championship was already won.

"We will only be in trouble if we listen to Jose too much," added the United boss. "I won't be letting the players fall into the trap of thinking it's won because all we have done is give ourselves a foundation. There are many hurdles to be navigated in the run-in.

"To win the league, you have to have great consistency, particularly around March and April. Historically, we have done okay at that time of the year.

"All championship races are difficult but the real test comes on the run-in when any mistake can cost you everything.

"That will be the test for us. I am sure it will be ourselves and Chelsea but I am sure we will last the distance."