Ferguson makes case for defence

Sir Alex Ferguson is confident Manchester United's defence will provide the platform for a record 19th league title this season.

United emerged from a potentially decisive day of Premier League action with the leadership retained thanks to their 2-1 win over Liverpool, and a four-point gap over former favourites Chelsea following their failure to beat Blackburn at Ewood Park.

"We have a very experienced back four and a very experienced goalkeeper. That gives us a real outstanding chance," said Ferguson.

"There are seven difficult matches - but we have all got difficult matches, so what does it matter?

"No-one is going away. We are all knocking on doors. If you look at the run-ins for the teams, it could very well go to the wire."

Manchester City and Tottenham look to be the most arduous tests on the run-in, once Chelsea's visit to Old Trafford on April 3 has been negotiated. Given their goal difference advantage on Arsenal, Ferguson is now aware a draw against Carlo Ancelotti's men, attached to six victories, will be enough to give United the prize.

Wayne Rooney's 33rd goal of the season, not that long after Fernando Torres had given Liverpool a fifth-minute lead, merely confirmed what a key figure the England star is - even if Rafael Benitez claimed Antonio Valencia dived for the penalty. Rooney tapped home the rebound after his spot-kick had been saved by Pepe Reina.

The winner though was created by Darren Fletcher's cross and converted by Park Ji-sung's diving header, and the South Korean midfielder was singled out for special praise by Ferguson.

"Park was fantastic," said Ferguson. "He is one of those players we can give roles to. He has such intelligence and discipline.

"He is a very important player for us and he is such a brave little lad too. It was his courage that got him the goal."