Man United's Ferguson takes aim at Real Madrid

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has already set his sights on Real Madrid just 24 hours after clinching the English Premiership.

United won their eighth title in 11 years when Arsenal, who had set the pace for almost all the season, lost 2-3 at home to Leeds United on Sunday.

Ferguson, who did not watch the Arsenal match, said: "Now we have to get the big one again. Winning it twice is not enough."

United were the first English European champions in 1968 when George Best was playing under Matt Busby. They won the trophy a second time under Ferguson in 1999 when they scored two last minutes goals to pip Bayern Munich.

United were outclassed 3-1 in Spain by nine-times European champions Real Madrid last month but reallied to win the return match of their quarter-final 4-3, despite conceding three wonder goals to Brazil World Cup star Ronaldo.

"We are not far away, believe me," Ferguson told Sky TV.

"Everyone was excited by the Real Madrid adventure. We want it again. It has become as important as anything you can think of in football."

Ferguson said winning the Premiership proved his team's resilience.

"It is fantastic, the greatest achievement by the team," he said.

"We were up against a terrific side but we showed perseverance, determination and a great ability never to give up. That's what got us the title."

"We had to overcome injuries early in the season but we had to bite the bullet and take the poison. I was surprised people had their doubts - I knew we would have all our main players back for the main part of the season."

"I never doubt Manchester United. I know their capabilities. When you are with a group for a long time you know them. I know they take a challenge."

"After losing to Manchester City I asked them if they were hungry enough. These are young men who are very rich. You must ask that question."

Ferguson put victory down to United's "fantastic run".
"We went on a fantastic run. You can't deny teams in that spell," he said.

"Four years ago we stuttered and Arsenal won the title. You can never be sure in this league."