Manchester United made a real mess out of their title bid having lost to Arsenal at the weekend, allowing Chelsea to close the gap to just three points.

With the two fierce rivals set to face each other in what will be a title decider at Old Trafford next weekend, Sir Alex Ferguson is keen on keeping his star players fresh for that game.

With United carrying a two-goal advantage into the return leg of the Champions League semi-final against Schalke, Fergie has announced he is set to make numerous changes to the side that lost to Arsenal.

“I will make some changes on Wednesday without question,” Ferguson was quoted as saying.

“I will bring Paul Scholes back in, Dimitar Berbatov, Michael Owen.

“We’ll need to do that but I will probably keep my experienced players at the back.

“We have a big week ahead. Wednesday is a European semi-final second leg and then the game on Sunday.

“Two massive games, so we will regroup and freshen it up.”

The Manchester United boss didn’t miss the opportunity to blame the referees for the Arsenal defeat.

“It’s too big a game not to get the decisions right,” he said.

“Clichy knew (that he had fouled Owen). He put his hands up in horror.

“Obviously, it gives Chelsea a major chance now. That’s what happens when you get these decisions.

“They got one at Old Trafford last season so that’s the worry now.”

Despite the defeat at the Emirates, United are still odds-on favourites for the Premier League title, with William Hill paying 1.25 (1/4) if United win the title, whereas Chelsea are 4.40 (17/5) with Betfair to produce a stunning comeback and lift the coveted trophy.