The champions will play their first Barclays Premier League match in 13 days at the Britannia Stadium, following their participation in the Club World Cup in Japan.

The Potteries venue has already developed a reputation as one of the toughest places to visit following Stoke's promotion last season, and Ferguson believes the level of hostility could even match that experienced by his players when they play hated rivals Liverpool at Anfield.

"I've been to the Britannia Stadium for quite a few games over the years, and there's always that really hot atmosphere," Ferguson said.

"They are really passionate down there, and you have to deal with that. You could be going to Sunderland, Newcastle or Anfield, they're similar situations you have to deal with."

He added: "We expect Stoke to fight for everything because if you look at the bottom of the league, there are 10 teams separated by seven points. It's the tightest I can remember.

"Last year the difference between the fourth-bottom and bottom place was 14 points, so it's a change. This season, teams at the bottom may need well over 40 points to guarantee safety, and we always say that 40 points is the safety margin."

Ferguson will, meanwhile, be happy to see out the season with the current crop of players at his disposal.

He has no intention of recruiting top names when the transfer window reopens next week.

Instead his focus remains on being on the shoulders of the Premier League leaders going into 2009.

He said: "I do not think there will be any January transfers. I am happy with what I have got.

"We are probably going to bring back a couple of young players who have been on loan. That may just give us extra protection.

"We took 23 players to Japan and they are very substantial players. I would be happy to play anyone of them."

While United were away in the Far East, the top two, Liverpool and Chelsea, failed to take advantage and dropped points.

Liverpool drew at Arsenal while Chelsea had to settle for a point against Everton at Goodison Park.

United are seven points adrift of Liverpool and six behind Chelsea - but have two games in hand on both.

Ferguson is now intent on regaining the high ground.

He said: "If we get within a point or two of the leaders by New Year's Day then we are in with a chance.

"The second half of the season is the most important because if you lose a game it means something, particularly when you get to March and April.

"Recent results have been predictable. Arsenal and Liverpool, given the position of the clubs and the history of the clubs, you expect a tight match."

United will train on Christmas morning before making the short 40-mile trip after dinner with their families.