Fergie's Focus:ALEX Ferguson has urged his Manchester United team to take inspiration from Pádraig Harrington's successful British Open defence as they look to repeat last season's heroics.

Ferguson is not one to rest on his laurels after his team lifted the European Cup and retained their Premier League title, but he conceded winning big competitions in successive years is "terribly difficult".

Ferguson remains energised and enthused by the ability of top sports people to maintain their focus under extreme pressure.

He praised Harrington for the way he retained his title at Royal Birkdale - and challenged his players to show similar drive and ambition.

On winning major events back to back, Ferguson said: "It is terribly difficult. Harrington, however, was so cool and showed to me he had the bottle. When he needed to perform in the last six holes, he had four birdies."

Retaining the European Cup and chalking up a hat-trick of Premier League victories would be a magnificent achievement.

"It can be done, " he said. "It is a challenge for us, but there is nothing wrong with challenges. They are good for you."

Ferguson, meanwhile, expects United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool to dominate the Premier League landscape.

"I feel that the top four clubs will remain as they are, although I am not dismissing anyone.

"If we are number one I will be absolutely delighted."