Ferguson fearful after Fulham run riot

LONDON: Manchester United's resources may have made them the envy of world football but Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted a lack of defensive depth may cost them a fourth straight English Premier League title.

United are struggling to cope with a crippling injury list which has deprived them of six senior defenders in recent weeks - a scenario which, even for a club with its swollen bank account, has proved untenable.

Having already slumped to a surprize defeat at home to Aston Villa this month, United's makeshift back-line crumpled again on Saturday as it was beaten 3-0 by Fulham at Craven Cottage.