THE Premiership title is as good as at the door-steps of Manchester United for a second time in a row.

And, as is customary at Old Trafford after the final home game, Sir Alex Ferguson (right) gave his end of season address to the fans and the players did a lap of honour.

'First of all, we should applaud the players, they've done so well,' he said.

'And I'd also like to pay a great tribute to our medical staff, and our coaching staff, to Carlos (Queiroz) and his team after a fantastic performance...well done.

'And of course, lastly, to you the supporters. Tuesday night, to me, was one of the greatest pieces of impact for you to make on our team, well done.

'As the lads make their lap of honour, a tribute to you, the fans, enjoy yourself in Moscow, and hopefully next week at Wigan. Well done.'

Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Ferguson gave his thoughts on the game itself, and how his side dealt with the problems that came their way during the course of the encounter.

'That was an important game today,' he declared. 'We went down to 10 men and that maybe created a bit of nervousness in the team.

'But during the second half, we tried to run the clock down, keep possession of the ball, be patient, and of course then the fourth goal killed the game.

'I'm very pleased, because I think you noticed yourself, there was a bit of tiredness in the second half on a hot day. It was a great day for us, we have a big chance of winning the title.'

United could win the title if Chelsea fail to win at Newcastle tomorrow, and Ferguson believes the Blues' confidence has been quite premature.

'The way Chelsea have been talking, it's as if it's going to be easy up there, and we know from our experience it won't be that way,' said Ferguson.

With Cristiano Ronaldo's double today, the Portugal winger he has hit an exceptional 30 league goals this season, needing another two to break Alan Shearer's record with one game remaining.

'He's had a fantastic season,' remarked Fergie.

'The boy develops all the time, and once again he got a terrible tackle on him today.'

In other news, Sir Bobby Charlton has had one of his 759 appearances chalked off following reassessment of the record books, therefore Ryan Giggs would be able to break the record if he played at Wigan next weekend, and at Moscow in the Champions League final.

'I think there's a good chance Giggs will break the record,' smiled Ferguson.

'I think there's a very good chance.' - Wire Services.