Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel is impressed by the winning focus of the players this season.

The Dane is pleased to see United showing focus on the task at hand: setting about reclaiming the Barclays Premier League title.

"There's a real focus about United this season," the Dane told the Reds' matchday programme United Review. "Last year we had an eight-point lead in the Premier League and lost it, and I don't think I've seen us lose such a lead before, especially so close to the end of the season.

"The manager has given a clear message to the players that he won't accept it happening again. I'd say that message has been heeded."

There have been signs recently, particularly in the league, of getting the job done. Victories against Southampton, Fulham and Everton urged Sir Alex to describe his players against the latter of those opponents as having "their championship-winning heads on right from the off".

"The win at Fulham two weeks ago was the kind of game we probably would have lost last season," Schmeichel adds. "There's a definite sense that lessons have been learned, and that's key if we're to pick up silverware this season."