Evra certain United will retain Premier League title

Manchester United defender Patrice Evra is convinced his side will prove the critics wrong by retaining the Premier League.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s side have been criticised by some pundits after an inconsistent first half of the season marred by five league defeats and a shock FA Cup third round exit against League One club Leeds United.

United missed a chance to replace Chelsea on top of the table when they were held to a draw at Birmingham last weekend, but France left-back Evra insists the way the champions have stayed in touch with the leaders despite a host of injuries is proof that they will last the pace better than anyone.

“I am sure we will win the league this year,” he said. “Tell me another team that would have nine defenders injured like that and still only be one point away from the leaders.

“Chelsea and Arsenal do have a game in hand but no-one else could do so well.

“We would definitely be well ahead at the top of the table without these problems.”

Ferguson and his squad flew to Qatar this week for a warm weather training camp and Evra admits the players took the opportunity to talk about United’s recent struggles.

“It was a chance to make sure everyone understands we must not throw the league away,” Evra said.

“We talked a lot about tactics and what we needed to achieve until the end of the season. It is a chance to write the story.

“A lot of people talk about Manchester United’s attack but if you look back at our last three titles, the real strength is the defence.

“People say we are not going to win the title and we have dropped too many points. But I am proud and happy where we are. I fear no-one.”