Rooney ready for title charge

United have Chelsea in their sights

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 22nd October 2008

manchester united wayne rooney west brom

Rooney: Unstoppable of late

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Wayne Rooney believes Manchester United are making positive strides in their Premier League title defence.

The Red Devils have won their last three domestic fixtures, lifting them to within six points of leaders Chelsea.

Last season's top two are set to meet at Old Trafford on 10th January, with Rooney admitting he already has one eye on that contest.

With Liverpool and Arsenal also regarded as realistic contenders for the crown this season, meetings between the 'big four' are likely to dictate which side will lift the trophy in May.

"We knew this was going to be a difficult start to the season but thankfully we're not too far way from Chelsea in the league with our game in hand," Rooney told the Evening Standard.

"It will be very interesting when we play each other after Christmas and we're looking forward to it already."

Brilliant

United's recent fine form has coincided with Rooney rediscovering his touch in front of goal, scoring in seven straight games for club and country.

The England international admits his exploits of late have come as something of a surprise, but believes his blossoming partnership with Dimitar Berbatov may be partially responsible.

The duo grabbed all three goals for United as they disposed of Celtic in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday, taking their combined tally to 10 in their last seven games when paired together.

"I'm doing well at the minute and enjoying myself so I hope it can continue," he added.

"I don't know what's changed. I haven't got a clue - but I'm scoring goals. I'm starting to play a lot higher up the pitch and maybe attacking defenders a bit more than I was at the beginning of the season, so perhaps that is it.

"We have brilliant strikers here and they are helping me. Berba did really well last night and Carlos Tevez came on and looked sharp and created a goal for me, too."

Prem 2008/09 Win Outright: Man Utd 5/4