Ferguson sends out warning

Ferguson has a revitalised attitude

Sir Alex Ferguson has insisted that his Manchester United side will get even better.

Ferguson was speaking for the first time since confirming his new three-year deal with the club.

The United boss said he also hoped that David Beckham would agree a new deal "within the next few weeks".

Ferguson hopes to sign Beckham soon

"Hopefully my health will be maintained and I can go on and do the next few years because I do think we can get better," said Ferguson.

"There is a great future for Manchester United. We still have a vibrant youth system and we have fantastic medical and coaching staff in place.

"It's exciting for me and I think those are the areas where we can make up more ground."

England captain Beckham has still to sign a new contract but Ferguson is hoping to resolve that situation in the immediate future.

He continued: "David knows that and wants to stay.

"Roy Keane too, any player we are trying to sign - David's no different.

"Hopefully in the next two weeks we might get that sorted. David knows that. I have spoken to him once or twice and explained to him.

"When he was left out of the team, it was an area of worry for him. It was for the best reasons, and has come to fruition now.

"His form now is because we rested him. We wouldn't have seen that form today."

At this time of year we start to get ready for the battle

Sir Alex Ferguson

Ferguson's new deal begins on 1 July and it is thought to be worth £11m, which puts him on a par with the club's top earner Roy Keane on a reported £70,000-a-week.

United chief executive Peter Kenyon said: "It's a big day for Manchester United and perhaps the only people who will not be too happy are some of our competitors."

United are top of the Premiership but only four points ahead of fourth placed Liverpool.

But Ferguson insisted: "At this time of year we start to get ready for the battle, so I'm confident that the form is back.

"I think the competition this year is very fierce. I think the four at the top are looking very strong."

Newcastle are second to United under Bobby Robson's managership, although Ferguson said the 69-year-old's success had nothing to do with his decision.

"He (Robson) had nothing to do with my decision but I think Bobby is a marvellous example to lots of people. It's phenomenal what he has achieved."