Ferguson laughs off Mancini jibe

Sir Alex Ferguson dismissed Roberto Mancini's claim Manchester United are "lucky" to have a 12-point lead in the Premier League.

Mancini made the observation last weekend as he assessed the state of a title race that subsequently saw victories for both United and Manchester City that maintained the status quo with 11 games remaining.

The City manager's argument is that United, whilst deserving of their top-of-the-table status, were not so superior to his own side they were worthy of such an imposing advantage that surely will be impossible to claw back.

It was an observation Ferguson countered immediately.

"We're dead lucky," said the Scot, with more than a hint of sarcasm.

"We have only been doing it for 25 years. It is a terrible habit.

"Maybe he (Mancini) is lucky they are only 12 points behind."

It was Ferguson in one of his jocular moods, although it did not lead to words of sympathy for old adversary Rafael Benitez over his plight at Chelsea, which the Scot preferred to stay out of.

"I am not getting into that," he said.