Vidic eyes Chelsea after Derby defeat

Updated on: 09 January,2009 07:37 AM IST |
PA Sport |

Nemanja Vidic is adamant yesterday's surprise Carling Cup defeat at Derby will not have an adverse affect on Manchester United's performance against Chelsea this weekend.

hot serb! Man U's Serbian Nemanja Vidic (right) heads the ball during yesterday's FA Cup semi-final first leg match against Derby County at Pride Park, Derby. pic/afp

United tackle Luiz Felipe Scolari's men in a Premier League blockbuster at Old Trafford on Sunday knowing victory will drag them to within a point of the Blues, with two additional matches in hand.

That obvious incentive will ensure the Red Devils' heads are cleared after their reverse at Pride Park, with Vidic in no doubt United will be ready for battle. "The Premier League is different," said the Serbia defender.

"We know what it means for both teams and we are looking forward. It will be a great game and we will be doing our best to win."

Indeed United's first loss in 15 matches may have come as a direct result of Sunday's game.

Knowing his side had another meeting with Derby in a fortnight to turn the tie around, Vidic wonders if sub-consciously they eased off the pedal last night, keeping something in reserve for an eagerly-awaited confrontation which would leave Chelsea in big trouble if they lost.

"Maybe in the back of our minds we always recognised we would have a second chance," reflected Vidic.

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