With second placed Manchester City hosting Liverpool tomorrow, United have the opportunity to take their lead into double figures with a win at Craven Cottage against a Fulham side routed by Alex Ferguson’s team in the FA Cup last weekend.

But United were far from convincing in their 2-1 home victory over Southampton and have let 10 points slip on their travels. Those away-day blips have convinced United captain Vidic that his team are far from the finished article and he insists they must give Fulham full respect.

“We have to now focus for the Fulham game. It’s important to win games, especially at this stage of the season, and every game now is important.

“We know that we have to forget the games played and focus on the next ones. Nothing is finished yet. There is a long way to go but we’re in a good position,” Vidic said.

United duo Jonny Evans and Ashley Young remain doubtful for the game due to respective hamstring and knee problems. Fulham will face United strengthened by the arrival of AC Milan’s Holland international Urby Emanuelson on loan.