Fletcher - We've gained an edge

Darren Fletcher feels Manchester United have gained a 'little psychological edge' over Arsenal in the title race.

United closed the gap to the leaders to three points over the weekend after a 5-1 win at Newcastle United, following Arsenal's 2-2 draw at Birmingham City.

Those results follow on from United's 4-0 FA Cup thumping of the Gunners and Fletcher feels that emphatic victory has had an impact.

"The title race was open even before," Fletcher told MUTV. "We know Arsenal have still got to come to Old Trafford too.

Nitty-gritty

"But that result last week maybe had a little psychological edge. We went out there and played fantastically against Arsenal and managed to win convincingly, and they've not won since.

"It's getting to the nitty-gritty now, we've been there last season and we know what it's about.

"We're hoping to push on and keep winning every game now until the end of the season - that's the target."

Fletcher, who has impressed on his last two starts against Arsenal and Newcastle, also believes the strength of Sir Alex Ferguson's squad will benefit the club's challenge for trophies in the coming weeks.

Struggle

He added: "Sometimes it's a struggle to get on the bench, but that's only good for Manchester United because you know that when you get your chance you have to perform to a top, top level.

"Sometimes even that's not good enough because the team gets rotated, so there's no room for bad performances and that keeps everyone on their toes.

"That's why we've got a big squad and we're fighting on all fronts, which is going to help us because we didn't have that last season. I think we're going to see the benefit of that this season."

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