Fergie backs referee Webb

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has pleaded for referee Howard Webb to be left alone at Old Trafford.

Ferguson had previously called for a strong official to take charge of Sunday's eagerly-anticipated clash with champions Chelsea. With Graham Poll on annual leave, 35-year-old Webb has been handed the task of controlling the teams.

"He is a young referee and we should let him get on with the game and give him a chance," said Ferguson. "As long as he is fair, no-one can complain. I certainly hope it is not a game where we see players start to crowd round the referee as has happened so often recently."

Surrounding officials is something Chelsea players do on a regular basis, although United can hardly claim to be on the moral high ground given Roy Keane led the infamous pursuit of Andy D'Urso after he had awarded Middlesbrough a penalty at Old Trafford six years ago.

For the sake of everyone involved, it is to be hoped the contest - which could see United seize a six-point lead at the Premiership summit - is not decided by a major decision from the official.

Ferguson certainly believes his players have the potential to repeat their success in the corresponding fixture 12 months ago, which would take Chelsea into uncharted territory during their time under Jose Mourinho's control.

"Who is to say what their reaction might be," added Ferguson, when asked how Chelsea might respond to falling so far behind.

"For all I know, they might go out and buy another six players.

"What we have to do is get ourselves into a position where we can find out what happens.

"You cannot hide the fact this is a great opportunity for us."