Manchester United boss Alex Ferguson has pinpointed his side's derby defeat to Manchester City as the turning point in the Old Trafford club's season.
United lost 3-1 to City in that stinging derby defeat and many were writing their chances of a Championship challenge off at the point. But since then, they have played their way back into contention, climbing to third in the Premiership after victories over both Arsenal and Liverpool.
The United manager said "I think that the City defeat was the defining moment, I really do. I've been delighted with the players' response since then. They have proved time and time again that they have the ability - but you have to keep your foot on them all the time about the desire to win matches."
"There's a long way to go but we are looking forward to getting more players back over Christmas, when we should be in good fettle, and we can look forward to the next few months. I think it gives us a chance. The players have proved time and time again that they have the ability but you have to keep your foot on them all the time about the desire to win matches."
Ferguson will also gain a sense of satisfaction from the displays of Juan Pablo Veron and Diego Forlan. Both have come in for their share of criticism after lack-lustre displays in the United shirt, but as Ferguson pointed out - it was Forlan's goal's that beat Liverpool and Veron who ran the midfield against Arsenal.
" We worked so hard and showed the desire to win the match. The mood of the players in the past few weeks has been terrific and the team spirit is great," Ferguson said after victory over Arsenal.
Filed by Rob Wright
