29 November 2006, by Sean Gillen

Carvalho: “We’re the best and we’re going to prove it”

But international team-mate Ronaldo sees it differently…

Chelsea hero Ricardo Carvalho claims that the Blues will now go on to lift the Premiership title, after their 1-1 draw with leaders Manchester United at Old Trafford on Sunday. Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo says that United were the better side on the day, and are disappointed not to have increased their lead at the top.

Carvalho’s 69th minute equaliser cancelled out Louis Saha’s earlier strike for the Red Devils, and saw Chelsea remain three points behind United in the league. Now the former Porto man insists that his side have proved their quality, and will ultimately claim their third consecutive title.

“We are the best team in England and we are going to prove it. We will be champions,” he said.

“The goal I scored was important because it gave us a draw and prevented United from increasing the gap. I didn’t train all week and am very satisfied because manager Jose Mourinho trusted me.”

There is much debate in England over which of the two sides will be happier with the result, and United’s Portuguese winger Ronaldo has suggested that his team are frustrated at not having got the win they feel was deserved.

Ronaldo: "Two points lost"

“I feel like we ended up with two points lost after our exhibition and the chances we created,” said the 21-year-old. “We played better and because of that this draw leaves a bitter taste.”

“This was a good chance to increase the gap to six points. It wasn’t possible, but also we didn’t lose and that was very important. Therefore we kept our advantage at three points and that is also good.”

The match saw Ronaldo resume his long-running battle with England left-back Ashley Cole, a player the former Sporting man has previously described as his toughest opponent. The duels between the two have produced differing results in the past, and Cole admits that playing against Ronaldo is a major challenge, and brings out the best in him.

“We’ve had two real battles in games between England and Portugal and it was another one at Old Trafford. He’s one of the best right-wingers in the world, if not the best,” said Cole.

“As soon as he gets it he’s so direct. But it does seem that when I play against better players it brings out the best in me.”

Ronaldo, who is hoping to shake off a knock in time for United’s game with Everton on Wednesday, says he was happy with his and the team’s display, and is feeling confident that United are on course to challenge for trophies.

“I had a good game like the whole team, which did well enough. On balance it’s positive and most of the players are at a good level.”

“We have a great chance of winning the title. We are on the right track.”