Temp Head

Paul Hyland

ALEX Ferguson is facing the biggest challenge of his career after Manchester City ripped the Premier League away from Old Trafford after extraordinary decision-day drama.

With Roberto Mancini poised for a summer clear-out of as many as ten players and another spending spree, Ferguson must match him or fall behind.

"I think we have a rich history, better than anyone, and it will take them a century to get to our level of history.

"But for us it's still a challenge and we're good at challenges. We'll kick on from here," claimed Ferguson.

Mancini, cock-a-hoop and still reeling from a heart-stopping finish to the season, sent out an ominous warning.

"We changed the history of this club by beating a strong team like United. Now I hope we can continue to win."

3FOOTBALL FOCUS: PAGES 61-71