Fergie - Big chance for United

Red Devils boss closing in on title

By Rob Parrish   Last updated: 3rd May 2008

Sir Alex Ferguson Cristiano Ronaldo Manchester United Premier League Old Trafford

Ferguson and Ronaldo celebrate

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Sir Alex Ferguson knows Manchester United have a "big chance" of wrapping up the Barclays Premier League title after thrashing West Ham 4-1 at Old Trafford.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice and strikes from Carlos Tevez and Michael Carrick moved United a step closer to the title, despite Nani's first-half dismissal, with Dean Ashton hitting the Hammers' consolation.

Victory at Wigan next Sunday will confirm United as champions, with Chelsea now three points adrift ahead of their trip to Newcastle on Monday.

Great day

Ferguson told Sky Sports: "It's been a great day for us and we've got a big chance.

"Our players have been absolutely fantastic this season. We were down to 10 men and I said to try to run the clock down, keep possession and be patient in the second half and I'm very pleased because there was a bit of tiredness."

The Scot had no complaints about Nani's foolish sending-off for butting Lucas Neill, vowing to "deal with it".

On Monday's clash at St James' Park, Ferguson said: "The way Chelsea have been talking is that it'll be easy up there - but we know that's not the case.

"Look at Dean Ashton. He was a United fan as a kid but scored a goal which could kill our hopes."

On Ronaldo he added: "Cristiano has had a fantastic season and he develops all the time.

"There was a terrible tackle on him today but he keeps getting up and playing with courage and you've got to applaud that."

Record

Ryan Giggs came on as a substitute to move within one game of equalling Sir Bobby Charlton's revised appearance record of 758.

It means he would break the record if he plays at Wigan and also in the Champions League final, and Ferguson said there was a "good chance, a very good chance" of it happening.

The Welshman himself said: "It would mean more to win the Champions League and the Premier League.

"Personal records are things to look back on when you finish you career.

"Yes, it would be a proud moment if I do it but the main thing now is trophies."