Fergie ready for United's 'uphill fight'

Updated 09.59 Mon Aug 20 2007

Keywords: Champions League, Premier League, Sir Alex Ferguson, Sven-Goran Eriksson, Manchester United, Manchester City, football, sport

Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted that Manchester United face an 'uphill task' after making their worst start to a Premier League season in 15 years.

The Red Devils find themselves five points behind title rivals Chelsea after losing 1-0 at leaders Manchester City.

"We have given ourselves an uphill fight, there is no doubt about that. We know the position we have put ourselves in" - Sir Alex Ferguson

Brazilian star Geovanni settled the 148th Manchester derby with a deflected 31st-minute strike at the City of Manchester Stadium.

United have now picked up just two points from their opening three matches, leaving them having to play an unwanted game of catch-up.

Ferguson said: "We have given ourselves an uphill fight, there is no doubt about that. We know the position we have put ourselves in.

"Over the years we have always been able to overcome these things. We will have to do so again. But this is a league where if you make mistakes like this one, it punishes you. We have to get a win under our belts."

The 65-year-old United boss has promised there will be no knee-jerk reaction ahead of Sunday's clash with Tottenham Hotspur.

Ferguson saw his men recover 15 years ago to lift the Premier League title and he is refusing to panic.

He added: "At this moment in time we have to rely on our experience and make sure we do not get carried away with a knee-jerk reaction to it all.

"I cannot fault the performance because it was outstanding. We completely dominated the game but we have thrown it away because we didn't take our chances."