Fergie out to defend crown

Red Devils boss backs squad to triumph in Rome

By James Dall   Last updated: 29th August 2008   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Fergie out to defend crown

Ferguson: Believes in squad

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Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes his squad is capable of claiming back-to-back UEFA Champions League successes.

The holders have been drawn against SPL champions Celtic, Spaniards Villarreal and Danish side Aalborg in Group E.

Ferguson led his men to European glory in 1999 before repeating the feat last season with a penalty shoot-out triumph over Premier League rivals Chelsea.

The Red Devils chief is determined to defend the club's crown, but is aware his players must give their all if they are to make history.

He said in the Daily Star: "No-one has defended the Champions League and that's a great challenge. I think we have the squad to challenge for it.

Exciting

"The best way to look at the draw, first of all, is to progress from the group stage.

"The challenge is to get 10 points as quickly as you can. That usually gives you qualification.

"Then, it all kicks off again in February - and that's when I feel it starts to get really exciting.

"We have to make sure we do our best and apply ourselves in the right way.

"If we do that we have a chance - as good a chance as most teams."