United's focus is now entirely on a relentless drive to be in a strong league position come January, as the Reds attempt to clinch a fourth Barclays Premier League title in a row in 2010.

With Sir Alex Ferguson's side already through to the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League and the international fixtures now completed for 2009, the seasoned campaigners at Old Trafford can focus firmly on domestic matters.

"It's a busy period now and it's all club, club, club," says Darren Fletcher.

"The Champions League is important for us, but we've done our job in the tournament now so we can look forward. We need to kick on and put a run of league wins together.

"Beating Everton was a good start. They came and made it difficult for us but we kept the ball and we were patient and took our chances when they came."

There is a clear determination in the dressing room to ensure Saturday's comprehensive 3-0 victory will be the first of a long winning run into the New Year.

"We are five points behind Chelsea, but we want to win every game from now until the end of December," says Patrice Evra.

"We have already qualified for Europe and the World Cup qualifiers have all finished, so we need to concentrate on the league because we want to win a fourth title in a row."