MANCHESTER: Sir Alex Ferguson said Manchester United will have to beware of an Arsenal backlash when they meet in the English Premier League on Sunday.
The champions have started the season in style with successive wins, while their rivals have picked up just one point.
United could have an eight-point advantage after the Old Trafford encounter, but Ferguson will take nothing for granted.
He is aware Arsenal and manager Arsene Wenger are hurting after their disappointing start and the sales of the inspirational Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri.
But a 2-1 win at Udinese took the Gunners into the Champions League group stage and lifted spirits as Ferguson fully recognises.
“They answered everybody back on Wednesday. His (Wenger) team played well. They got a great result. A lot of people thought they would go out. I didn’t,” he said.
“I thought they would win it. The game on Sunday will be another stepping stone for them.
“They will try to make sure they get a result, but we are in good form and are looking forward to it.
“A Manchester United-Arsenal game is always contentious and significant in terms of the rest of the season. It is one you always look forward to.”
While he will relish another test against his old foe, Ferguson has backed Wenger to come through a difficult period in his 15-year tenure as manager and cannot fathom the criticism directed at the Frenchman.
“It is quite a cynical world,” he added. “Supporters are far less easy to please than they were 20 years ago. It is disappointing.
“I don’t know the full story about Arsenal’s finances. Some clubs have a financial restriction – that may be the reason. He has always sold very well. He still has great quality in his teams.”
Arsenal’s lack of depth in their squad is one of the issues of concern for their supporters and not something United need worry about.
The return to fitness of Rio Ferdinand, Antonio Valencia, Javier Hernandez and Darren Fletcher – after a mystery virus – provides Ferguson with even more options and he added: “We are in a very healthy shape at the moment with the squad numbers.
“Darren Fletcher played a game (on Thursday), which is great news. The boy is back now. He has had a terrible time but now he is looking terrific and will be in the squad for Sunday.
“Rio is back training, Valencia is training well. Javier Hernandez came back on Monday, which gives me a tremendous problem when it comes to picking a side. But it is the kind of problem we want.”
The impressive form of his young players has added to his selection problems and Ferguson feels they have earned their places – meaning more established players might have to be prepared for a spell on the sidelines.
Striker Danny Welbeck scored in the 3-0 win against Tottenham Hotspur last Monday, defender Phil Jones ensured a clean sheet while midfielder Tom Cleverley provided an assist for Welbeck’s goal. (Agencies)