Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson can see a new threat emerging from Europe.

United, Manchester City and Chelsea all face ­elimination from the Champions League in this week's final round of group matches.

Ferguson, who takes his team to Basel on ­Wednesday needing a point to reach the ­knockout stages, said: "It's true we could have only one team through, and it represents a different challenge for English clubs.

"We have to make sure we don't underestimate the group stages.

"There is a change in terms of the money the Russians have got, and even a club like Apoel Nicosia have got, to bring in foreign players. Wealth is playing a part in that respect."