London: Only the foolhardy would read much long-term significance into Chelsea’s four-point lead over Manchester United after two Premier League games, but Didier Drogba claims that the club’s early surge reflects their intense resolve. “It’s too soon to look at the fact that we’re four points ahead of United and say, ‘That means we’re going to be champions’,” said Drogba. “But we want to be champions because we missed out last year. We have a four-point advantage and nobody would say we don’t want a gap like that.”

Ferguson: Protect the Ronaldos

Manchester: Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has called for greater protection from referees to prevent the Cristiano Ronaldos from sustaining serious injuries. The winger was sent off for violent conduct at Portsmouth on Wednesday and while Ferguson had no quibbles about the red card, he believes his player was provoked by a series of challenges that went unpunished by the referee .

Sven’s olive branch

London: Sven-Goran Eriksson and Alex Ferguson are set to share an $800 bottle of wine after Sunday’s Manchester derby despite clashing in the past. United manager Ferguson had regular run-ins with Eriksson when the Swede was England manager, particularly over releasing his players for friendly internationals. According to the report, the Swede has ordered a £415 bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon.

Hammers threaten legal action

London: West Ham on Thursday night threatened their own legal action over “repeated slurs” after Sheffield United launched a claim against them for damages which they claim could amount to £50 million.