Sir Alex Ferguson happy to go down to wire

United head into a pivotal week currently nursing a six-point lead over closest rivals Chelsea.

Carlo Ancelotti's men head to Old Trafford next Sunday. Before that though, the Red Devils go to Arsenal, who have fallen nine points behind after a dramatic slump in form.

With relegation-threatened Blackburn Rovers and Blackpool to close the season, it is widely assumed if United are to relinquish their grip on a record 19th championship, it has to come now.

Ferguson does not see it the same way. "There is still drama ahead," he said.

"The teams at the top will drop points, including Chelsea.

"Two months ago everyone was looking at these two games as league deciders. They probably are now.

"But if we get to the last home game needing to win it to win the league, I would be happy with that."

Tough Matches

Ferguson certainly does not buy into the theory that now is the time when United's nerves will start to show and their rivals will take advantage.

He accepts his side are facing two intensely tough matches but cannot work out why anyone believes they will be easier for the teams they are playing.

"The slant I seemed to be getting is that Arsenal and Chelsea are expecting to win these games and change the top of the league," he said.

"Why can't we win these matches? Surely, given the form we are in, we can.

"It is not going to be any easier for Arsenal or Chelsea than it is for us. These are difficult games."

Nevertheless, Ferguson is aware that avoiding defeat at the Emirates Stadium will ensure Chelsea cannot travel north with the additional incentive of knowing United can be caught.

"A point away from home at Arsenal is not the worst point - but that is not what we are going down there looking for," he said.