Radio New Zealand - Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa

Newcastle can play part in Premier League title: Ferguson

Updated at 12:23 pm on 4 May 2012

The Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is insisting that Champions League-chasing Newcastle can still provide another dramatic twist in the English Premier League title race.

Newcastle, fresh from a fine 2-0 victory at Chelsea, host leaders Manchester City on Sunday before United entertain mid-table Swansea later in the day.

United were eight points clear at the summit last month but City drew level on points after defeating Ferguson's side, who trail Roberto Mancini's City on goal difference with just two games remaining, 1-0 on Monday.

It is City's title to lose but Ferguson was boosted by Newcastle's victory at Stamford Bridge and believes the side can surprise the leaders on the penultimate weekend of the campaign.

Newcastle, who start the weekend fifth in the table and just one point behind third-placed Arsenal, are well placed to qualify for next season's Champions League.

And Ferguson believes the incentive of securing a place at European football's top table could inspire the Magpies to stop City from winning.

Copyright © 2012, Radio New Zealand