Alex Ferguson: Experience is key to United title glory

Posted Thursday, April 05, 2012 by The Sun

EXPERIENCE ... Alex Ferguson

ALEX FERGUSON believes Manchester United’s title-winning pedigree has helped them leave their rivals trailing in recent weeks.

The champions opened up a five-point lead over Manchester City this week — and it could be eight by 4pm on Easter Sunday.

And while City have shown signs of cracking, United have taken everything in their stride.

The City squad have plenty of experience but are short of players who have gone the distance in England’s top flight.

In contrast, Fergie’s squad have plenty of Premier League winners’ medals between them. And the boss said: “It’s down to experience. It never fazes them and they can handle it.

“Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs are unparalleled of course, but Wayne Rooney has four title medals, Rio Ferdinand has five.

“Michael Carrick has got a few and even people like Rafael have got two or three.

“So it all adds to the experience — and that’s valuable at this time of the season.”

United’s away form has also been a major factor. City have stuttered on their travels with a paltry two wins — and five goals — from their last nine. United have won 10 of their last 12 away. Fergie added: “Last season, we were fortunate as we had a great home record and only dropped two points at Old Trafford. But that was balanced out by the away form.

“This season, we’ve picked up fewer points at home but away form has been much better.

“We’ve had the most clean sheets away in the league this season and you need that.”

Fergie is growing frustrated with Paul Pogba’s refusal to sign a new deal. City and Juventus are monitoring the situation with the 19-year-old midfielder.