Alex McLeish concedes his Birmingham outfit and Manchester United are hardly competing on a level playing field this Sunday. The Blues face a daunting task on their return to the Barclays Premier League as they face Ferguson's champions Manchester United at Old Trafford.

McLeish has a good relationship with Ferguson having played under him at Aberdeen.

"If it was only about me and the boss, then maybe it might be a more even fight," McLeish said.

"But he has got untold riches in terms of ability, financial clout, technical ability, speed, strength - he has everything.

"They are a top, top club in everything they do.

"For us to compete with Manchester United is going to be very difficult but that is the challenge that faces every team that plays them.

"They are the champions, everywhere they go they are feted, and we are going into the lions' den this weekend.

"Our players will need to punch above their weight."