Manchester United Dugout

The champions play their first Barclays Premier League match in 13 days at the Britannia Stadium today, following their participation in the Club World Cup in Japan. And Sir Alex Ferguson does not expect an easy time against Stoke in their Boxing Day clash.

While United were away in the Far East, the top two, Liverpool and Chelsea, failed to take advantage and dropped points. United are seven points adrift of Liverpool and six behind Chelsea - but have two games in hand on both. And hence Ferguson is now intent on regaining the high ground. His focus will be on how the the Premier League leaders go into 2009.

Sir Alex has also said that he has no intention of recruiting new players when the transfer window opens next week. He says he is happy to see out the season with the current crop of players at his disposal. The only hint he gave was he plans to bring back a couple of young players who have been on loan.