20110329

Ferguson: Trophy hunt
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Sir Alex Ferguson admits a troubling injury list will make it harder for Manchester United to do the Treble this season.
The Red Devils achieved that feat in 1999, making history as they landed the Premier League, FA Cup and UEFA Champions League crowns.
There is a chance they could claim that collection of trophies again this season, with Ferguson having kept his side in the hunt on multiple fronts.
Chelsea await them in the quarter-finals of the Champions League, arch-rivals Manchester City must be overcome in the semi-finals of the FA Cup and the chasing pack are pushing hard to eat away at their lead in the Premier League.
Ferguson acknowledges that taking all three prizes will be difficult, with key men having been ruled out at a crucial stage of the season, particularly in his defence.
“It is going to be more difficult than it was in 1999,” said the Scot.
“We didn’t have the injuries we do now.
“There is a great desire to do it but we have so many injuries to defenders at present.
“We will never give in though. No matter what happens, you always feel Manchester United will score in the last minute.
“We must have a chance but it is more difficult than it has ever been.”
Challenge
If United are to prevail in Europe, there is a chance they will have to go through Barcelona first.
The Catalan giants have been in breathtaking form this season and have already put paid to Arsenal’s Champions League dreams.
Ferguson understands why Pep Guardiola’s side have been identified as the side to avoid in the latter stages of continental competition, but claims he would relish the opportunity to lock horns with a team some have labelled the best of all-time.
“Hopefully they have reached their peak already,” he said.
“They are an example to everyone of how to play football.
“Xavi and Andres Iniesta show so much courage to always want to take the ball and they have the little magician Lionel Messi up front, who is wonderful to watch.
“People say they don’t want to play against them. I think it is a privilege.
“It is the kind of challenge you want.”
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Injury headache for Fergie
