Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits it will be 'impossible' to catch Manchester City if they win convincingly at Newcastle.
But United manager still hopes Newcastle can deny rivals
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson admits it will be 'impossible' to catch Manchester City if they win convincingly at Newcastle.
The defending champions surrendered the advantage in the title race with an insipid 1-0 defeat to their rivals at the Etihad Stadium on Monday.
That result leaves City level on points but with a superior goal difference with just two games remaining.
Ferguson believes it will not be easy for Roberto Mancini's men at Newcastle on Sunday, so he will not be neglecting United's preparation for the visit of Swansea later that day.
"Monday night was a blow to us," admitted the 70-year-old. "We have to do what we can now and hopefully win our game on Sunday.
"By that time we'll know what we'll need to do, after City's game. Hopefully we can recover and win our own game.
"We'll be aware of the game going on before ours - you can't avoid it. We still have to prepare for our game, though. We won't neglect our preparation.
"But if City were to win by 3-0, say, the goal difference would be 11. It would be impossible for us then, I think."
Not easy
Newcastle boosted their hopes of UEFA Champions League football next season with a 2-0 win at Chelsea thanks to two sensational strikes from Senegal striker Papiss Cisse.
And Ferguson is hopeful Alan Pardew's team will prove a tough test for United's title rivals.
He added: "Newcastle are fighting for that position in the top four and they have a chance. It's an exciting end to the season.
"You don't get easy games in the league - going to Sunderland on the last day is not an easy game (United's opponents on May 13).
"The challenge for City is to win at Newcastle. Newcastle are playing very well. They lost 4-0 at Wigan but galvanised themselves to win at Chelsea.
"Their form is good and it won't be an easy game for City."
