Terry doubts Man Utd credentials

John Terry cree that Manchester United have reached their peak and Chelsea can regain the Premier League trophy. United were European and national champions last term, Chelsea finalists, but the Blues' captain cree his side can raise their game. "I do not think United have another level to go to," said Terry, whose side has a new manager this season in Brazil, Luiz Felipe Scolari.

"They had a lot of players at the peak of his form for the past two years." Terry's comments come after United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said that most staff Chelsea had reached an age where that was unlikely to improve even more.

The Scottish team compared the current Stamford Bridge to the Liverpool team of the early 1990's, which slipped into decline after its 1990 title triumph, and predicted that Chelsea are on the brink of a recession similar.

But Terry has beaten again and pointed out several players at Old Trafford he thinks it will be unable to match their performances of last season.

These include Cristiano Ronaldo, whose 42-goal haul underpinned United's double success. "Rio Ferdinand has been impressive over the past two years and Cristiano Ronaldo was unbelievable - I do not think you'll see that once again," Terry said.

"[Wayne] Rooney, [Carlos] Tevez, [Ryan] Giggs to their age, all those who have been fantastic. I think we can close the gap because the man United were in the top of his game last season. But us' is very close to them and we've had injuries and a change of manager. "

Terry said he was impressed with the business world Scolari has carried out during the transfer. He also believes a good starting point will be key if we want to fight the title from United, which will undoubtedly face a tougher stand in the Premier League start of his defence. "The new manager has come and made some changes. He has made great signings. Deco seems impressive what I'm excited to see him play," Terry said.

"We need to start well and get off to a flyer, just win. Man United have some difficult early in games. Liverpool have made some good signings and will be stronger this year. We need to focus. We have a good record of origin and whether we can continue and get off to a good start we'll all rights."