Giggs hailed as he helps secure United’s title

May 12 2008 by Our Correspondent, Western Mail

Fergie sounds Moscow warning for Chelsea

SIR ALEX FERGUSON celebrated another title triumph for Manchester United and warned Champions League final opponents Chelsea: “We are bouncing into the final.”

After United retained the Premier League title with a 2-0 win over Wigan, Ferguson was quick to remind Chelsea who has the psychological advantage ahead of the Champions League showdown in Moscow on May 21.

“If we had lost the title today it would have been a great knock, but the great thing is we are bouncing into the final,” he said.

Ferguson, asked if United’s latest triumph reinforced his determination to carry on as manager, replied: “I am very proud to have survived so long, but I am at a great club which makes it easier for me than the rest.”

Ferguson, who has won 10 titles during his reign, also predicted that the current United side will overhaul Liverpool’s overall total of 18 titles. United now have 17.

“I think it will come. This side is young There is plenty left in them.”

Ferguson admitted that Wigan had given United a stern test on their way to a title-clinching victory.

He continued: “It was a tough one all right. For most of the game we played well, but there were some nervous moments.”

United might have been reduced to 10 men in the first half when Paul Scholes, already on a yellow card, blocked off Wilson Palacios, but referee Steve Bennett gave him a final warning instead.

“We were a bit lucky,” acknowledged Ferguson. “The first tackle was reckless and he deserved to be booked, but the second one was nothing.”

Ferguson was pleased that his players had been able to maintain control of their own destiny.

He added: “We had to concentrate on our own game. I was pleased with that second goal. It makes it 10 (title medals) for Ryan Giggs which is fantastic.”