Ferguson not afraid of new Chelsea coach Scolari

August 8, 2008

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Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson insists he has no reason to fear the challenge from new Chelsea coach Luiz Felipe Scolari.

Scolari brings a wealth of experience to Stamford Bridge after winning the World Cup with Brazil in 2002 and leading Portugal to the final of Euro 2004.

The Brazilian's impressive CV has led some pundits to claim he will outwit Ferguson and end United's two-year reign as Premier League champions.

But Ferguson gave a withering response to that assessment as he underlined his own credentials, which include winning 10 Premier League titles and two European Cups during his 22-year reign at Old Trafford.

“I read that Scolari is more experienced than me. What have I been doing for the last 34 years? I must have missed something or been asleep somewhere,” Ferguson said.

“They are saying because of Scolari's experience Chelsea are going to win the league. I do not understand that.”

Although Ferguson respects Chelsea and admits Liverpool and Arsenal have improved their squads, the Scot believes United should be regarded as favourites to retain the title.

“It will not be easy. You expect Arsenal and Liverpool to improve and you would think Chelsea, with their experience, will be there. But I have to feel this team can defend its title,” he said.

“I have exactly the same squad as last season and I have to be confident it is not deteriorating, I cannot see how that can possibly be the case.

“I would have concerns if my team was full of players the same age as Ryan Giggs. But it is not.

“In people like Anderson, Nani and Carlos Tevez, we will see a lot of improvement.

“And the older ones have looked after themselves. Their concentration levels are still good and so is their desire.

“If anything, Paul Scholes' passing is the best it has ever been.”

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