Ferguson makes case for United defence

2009/11/08

MANCHESTER: Sir Alex Ferguson has voiced his support for Manchester United's defenders in the light of a relatively disappointing start to the season by the reigning Premier League champions.

United, who set a world record of 1,311 consecutive minutes without conceding a goal last season, have been far more susceptible this term, allowing 11 goals in as many Premier League games.

More worryingly, United have leaked seven goals at home, more than clubs in or around the relegation zone such as Birmingham, Hull and Wolves.

Ferguson's team have not been aided by the absence of goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar, who was in goal during last season's record-breaking run and injuries to Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand.

Those circumstances have forced the United manager to name 16 different defensive line-ups so far this season.

However, despite the lack of continuity in his defence and the loss of form of key personnel such as Ferdinand, Ferguson insists United's defensive frailties are not a cause for concern ahead of today's clash with table-toppers Chelsea, two points in front of the Scot's side.

"Changing defensive line-ups didn't affect us last year," said Ferguson.

"When we were on that run of 12 clean sheets we were changing the back four all the time so the players are there. We are lucky, we've got a good squad so I don't see why that should be the problem.

"But I think you also have to look at the number of goals scored in the Premier League this season as opposed to the previous season.

"It's the most there's been so maybe we are just in one of these unusual seasons, but it would be nice to get clean sheets -- no question about that," he added.

Coincidentally, United's record run of a dozen Premier League games without conceding a goal started last season following this corresponding weekend and Ferguson believes that his team are capable of repeating that feat.-- AFP