Sir Alex Ferguson says the Reds are determined to maintain their three point advantage over Chelsea ahead of the Blues visit to Old Trafford on Sunday week.
The United boss is already looking forward to the fixture which, according to Sir Alex, could prove crucial ahead of the hectic festive period.
"The game with Chelsea will be a massive one and we want to be going into it with a three point lead," insisted the Reds' boss.
"Chelsea's excellent starts to the last two league campaigns are the main reason why they've won the title. They've left us all catching our breath, but thankfully we've enjoyed a good opening to the season this time round.
"The consistency factor comes in to play now. After the game with Chelsea you then go into the December programme which is always congested, tense and exhausting for everyone.
"Nevertheless, there has been a real increase in momentum from us and the performances on the field are justifying a lot of people's optimism at the club.
"There is good ability in the team and a good understanding amongst the players," he added. "There is also a growing confidence within the squad but I don't want them to get too confident because there are a lot of pot holes ahead and they'll trip up somewhere.
"The important thing is how you recover. You have to have the consistency that champions need and the kind that we've had many times in the past."