With a 20th league title virtually in the bag and no more European distractions, Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson is challenging his side to push for a Premier League points record.

United visits Sunderland on Saturday when victory would open up an 18-point lead, at least until second-placed Manchester City hosts Newcastle United later.

With nine games remaining, United has 74 points and needs 22 more to break the record of 95 set by Jose Mourinho's Chelsea side in 2004-05. Its own record is 92.