Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson says his side will hold their nerve

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson insists his side will hold their nerve in the title race after going top of the Premier League.

United's 2-0 home victory over West Bromwich Albion saw them move a point clear of rivals Manchester City, who suffered a shock 1-0 defeat at Swansea.

And Ferguson says their championship-winning experience will count as they look to claim their 20th league title.

"We won't get nervous. We have the experience," Ferguson told BBC Sport.

With 10 games to go, United are now favourites to retain their title, victory having taken them top of the Premier League for the first time since 15 October. And Ferguson says he does not mind being the team to catch.

"I hope it is a significant day," he said. "I don't mind being top of the league at this stage.

"I think we've clawed it back from seven points behind to one point ahead.

"We've turned it around and credit to the players for that. They have shown great resilience and determination.

"We had a period of injuries but we have come through that now. We will keep on playing. It is good to see that type of temperament."

United's victory came courtesy of two goals from Wayne Rooney, who now has 26 for the season, including 15 in his last 14 games, an ominous sign for United's rivals.

But, despite going top, Rooney sounded a word of warning to his United team-mates.

"It's a great win," Rooney told BBC Sport. "But there are 10 games left, a lot can happen and we have to keep our form.

"We are plugging away. We have to keep going and keep picking up the points to get over the line.

"We know what we have to do and hopefully it will be enough. We are in a good position now and hopefully we can maintain our lead."