The Manchester United boss says the whole squad is
playing so well at the moment it is proving a nightmare choosing 11
and telling some of his stars they are left out.
Mind you, he admits the problem is great news for the
champions.
Ferguson said: “Everyone has done so well that I’m
beginning to dread picking the team.
“I feel guilty when I am forced to leave someone out
who has not only done nothing wrong but who has played
exceptionally well.
“It puts the club in a strong position, of course, but
it doesn’t make the manager’s job very easy.”
Fergie has a big seven days ahead of him, in which he
has to pick three teams.
Tonight, they take on Fulham, then it is Blackburn at
home on Saturday followed by a Champions League crunch in the San
Siro against Inter Milan next Tuesday.
He will want to field his strongest team against the
Italian champions but right now he admits to not knowing what that
is.
Fergie said: “People sometimes ask me what I consider
to be my best side and the short answer is that I don’t have
one.
“I can give you my best 14 or 15 but, better than that,
all I can say is that it’s a squad game and we have a damn fine
squad. In fact the best!”
They need it as well, as they take on the job of
winning an unprecedented five trophies this season.
The Club World Cup is in the bag and they have a date
at Wembley against Tottenham in the Carling Cup final on March
1.
Victory over Derby on Sunday booked them a trip to
Swansea or Fulham in the FA Cup last eight.
And, tonight, they can go five points clear of nearest
Premier League rivals Liverpool in their long-awaited game in
hand.
United have been playing catch-up due to their European
Super Cup and Club World Cup exploits.
Ferguson said: “Once we have played Fulham, we’ll know
exactly what position we are in.”
United have not conceded in 13 league games, allowing
them to win games by just scoring a single goal.
Nine of their 17 league victories this season have been
1-0, an indication that the division is now tougher.
He said: “There were signs last season that the league
was firming up. Games have become more difficult than they have in
the past.
“It’s very unforgiving. Make a mistake at this level
and it’s odds-on you will be punished.”
Fergie must decide whether Wayne Rooney faces Fulham
after seven games out with hamstring trouble.
The Scot said: “Wayne has not had a hamstring injury
before and there is no way we will be bringing him back before
we’re certain he’s ready.
“We must make sure enough work has been done on the
hamstring so that it doesn’t break down again.”