Ferguson demands focus from United

Sir Alex Ferguson has told his Manchester United players to dismiss critics and concentrate on reclaiming the Premier League title.

United extended their unbeaten run to 20 matches this season and opened up a three point lead over nearest challengers Manchester City and Arsenal thanks to a 2–1 win over Stoke at Old Trafford last night.

Yet even two excellent goals from Javier Hernandez and Nani left many feeling underwhelmed at the general performance of the team.

Not that Ferguson is bothered. He feels the best answer is for United to carry on as they are.

"But we just have to dismiss it and concentrate on our ambitions and that is to win the league,” he said.

Hernandez struck for the ninth time in his debut campaign, meeting Nani's low cross with a deft back–flick that took it past Asmir Begovic.

Then, after Dean Whitehead had nodded home a shock leveller five minutes into the second period, Nani clinched the points, curling home in sublime fashion after the Portugal winger had been given too much time to turn on the edge of the area.