Fergie aims to silence critics

Sir Alex Ferguson believes any debate over the merits of his current Manchester United side would be ended by triumph over Barcelona.

The Red Devils clinched a point at Blackburn on Saturday to secure a record 19th league title with a game to spare.

Yet still the doubters remain, unconvinced by the 1-1 draw at Ewood Park that ensured United would win the Premier League for the fourth time in five years.

But manager Ferguson believes any criticism can be silenced by beating Spanish giants Barca when they meet in the UEFA Champions League final later this month.

"Beating Barcelona would end all arguments about this team," said Ferguson.

"I know we are playing a terrific team but would you back against us in a big way? I don't think you would.

"We are capable of doing very well."

The Scottish boss believes the Premier League began to turn in United's direction following their scare at West Ham back in April.

They were trailing 2-0 at Upton Park before Wayne Rooney sparked a recovery to salvage the match with a hat-trick before Javier Hernandez grabbed another.

It began a run that ended with a Rooney penalty at Ewood Park on Saturday, and Ferguson has no doubts it was a pivotal game.

He added: "The game that changed the season? West Ham.

"We were 2-0 down at half-time and that put the fear of God into a lot of them. Me included."

Ferguson insists United's title victory does not mean they will be taking their foot off the gas next season.

"I will not be taking it easy because we have won the title," Ferguson pledged on MUTV.

"The ambition of the club doesn't alter. It doesn't go away. That is the responsibility as manager of Manchester United.

"The great thing about us is that we accept challenges. It doesn't matter where it comes from.

"Our job is to get better and we will try to be better next year."