Sir Alex Ferguson is feeling all nostalgic as he gears up for a title challenge from Arsenal.
The Manchester United chief wrestled the title back to Old Trafford last season from Chelsea, after Jose Mourinho twice claimed the top prize, but this term it looks as though Arsenal could be their fiercest rivals.
And it is such rivalry that has stoked up memories of Arsenal title triumphs in 1998, 2002 and 2004, with Ferguson revelling in the opportunity to pit his tactical wits against his old sparring partner Arsene Wenger.
"It's still an open race but Arsenal have had a great start and they're the ones we are chasing at the moment," Ferguson told the Daily Star.
"I know challenging for a title is a new experience for a lot of their players, but some of them have been there before and the manager has, and that is a big help.
"People said the same about us last year, but we led the league for three-quarters of the season, so I don't think it's a handicap."
Saturday's lunchtime clash at Emirates Stadium, promises to be a mouth-watering encounter and Ferguson admits he is enjoying reacquainting rivalries with old foes.
"Everything is coming together, as I thought it would, and in good time to take on Arsenal in what could be a key match in our title defence.
"The main thing is I know we will chase them with great fervour and determination."
The Manchester United chief wrestled the title back to Old Trafford last season from Chelsea, after Jose Mourinho twice claimed the top prize, but this term it looks as though Arsenal could be their fiercest rivals.
And it is such rivalry that has stoked up memories of Arsenal title triumphs in 1998, 2002 and 2004, with Ferguson revelling in the opportunity to pit his tactical wits against his old sparring partner Arsene Wenger.
"It's still an open race but Arsenal have had a great start and they're the ones we are chasing at the moment," Ferguson told the Daily Star.
"I know challenging for a title is a new experience for a lot of their players, but some of them have been there before and the manager has, and that is a big help.
"People said the same about us last year, but we led the league for three-quarters of the season, so I don't think it's a handicap."
Saturday's lunchtime clash at Emirates Stadium, promises to be a mouth-watering encounter and Ferguson admits he is enjoying reacquainting rivalries with old foes.
"Everything is coming together, as I thought it would, and in good time to take on Arsenal in what could be a key match in our title defence.
"The main thing is I know we will chase them with great fervour and determination."
