Fergie braced for tough test

Red Devils boss expects Blues to keep things tight at the Bridge

Last Updated: February 3, 2012 1:28pm

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Sir Alex Ferguson: Readying himself for another testing fixture against Chelsea

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Sir Alex Ferguson believes Chelsea will make life difficult for Manchester United on Sunday, with the Blues expected to try and keep things tight.

The Blues have adopted a more adventurous approach under Andre Villas-Boas, with the Portuguese coach placing more emphasis on attack than defence.

That philosophy has not always worked, with a 3-1 reversal at Old Trafford earlier in the season exposing their flaws at the back.

Ferguson admits he was surprised by Chelsea's tactics that day, but is confident they will alter them for a return date with United this weekend.

"That was a crazy game," said Ferguson as he reflected on a well-earned win.

"It could have been 20-18. I don't think it will be like that on Sunday. It will be much tighter."

Battles

Five months on, Chelsea still lack consistency. Yet they retain a formidable home record against the Red Devils, against whom they have not lost in Premier League action at Stamford Bridge since 2002.

"It's not going to be an easy game," said Ferguson.

"In the last seven years there have been many terrific battles with Chelsea.

"The manager has brought in two or three different players and I noticed when we played them earlier in the season there was a change in the style from previous Chelsea teams.

"When a new manager comes in on the back of someone as successful as Carlo Ancelotti, changes maybe take time.

"Everyone has their different philosophy and different ways of doing things.

"That is what we are seeing with Chelsea at the moment."