Considering the plight and the reckless relinquishing of much-needed points by Liverpool, Chelsea, and Arsenal, c****ined with the affirmation that Aston Villa lack depth and staying power, it is no surprise why some observers are indicating that Manchester United are about to run away with the Premier League crown.

The reigning title holders are on an indomitable defensive run, looking awesomely strong at the back, and that confidence translates through the team to the midfield and attack.

Rafael Benitez, though, discredits this belief, and insists that it is not just Liverpool who are still in the race for league glory.

"Aston Villa are in a good position also," Benitez is quoted by the club's official website as saying.

"I think it's too soon to say it's a two horse race. We have to keep going and then maybe at the end it could be down to two teams. I'm not surprised Villa are doing well because they have good players. They are working really hard and are in a good position, and that makes motivation for each game easier.
 
"The important thing is we are still in a fantastic position," he said.

Regarding the manner in which the club beat Portsmouth by coming from behind, twice, Benitez said, "The character of the players at Portsmouth was very good and the way we came back showed we have the right mentality. We have done that so many times this season.
 
"We have more confidence now because we are winning. If we keep winning it will be easier to keep our focus and keep going to the end."
 
Benitez concluded by stating that he was sorry to hear of the charismatic Brazilian boss Luiz Felipe Scolari's departure from Chelsea.
 
"I was really surprised and disappointed," he said. "He is a nice man, a fantastic manager and a good professional."