Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has claimed that the club will not be put off by Manchester City's challenge to their dominance of the English game.

City could clinch their first league title in 44 years with a win over Queens Park Rangers today, but Ferguson is already looking forward to renewing the local rivalry next season.

"Am I gearing up for next season? Yes, I think I am. I'll be fine next season. We're not going away and I'm not either. You'd better let them know across the road," said the 70-year-old.

"We just accept it as a challenge. We've done that well over the years and we'll just do exactly the same. It's not a club that's afraid of that. We've always been able to accept that and it's a challenge for me too. I don't mind a challenge.

"Is that what keeps me going? Definitely. It's taken three years off me and I'm feeling younger already!"

United could still win the Premier League title this afternoon with a win against Sunderland, but they would have to better City's result to do so.