THE Premier League and Champions League trophies are locked away in Manchester United's museum - out of sight and out of mind. Time to forget that double and work on victorious domestic campaigns to overhaul Liverpool's record 18 titles in Alex Ferguson's final two years before his planned retirement.

"Although mighty proud of our Premier League achievements and success in the Champions League, we know that we have to start all over again," Ferguson said. "Certainly that's the point I have been emphasising to the players during our pre-season preparations."

Little wonder after capturing 22 trophies in 22 seasons at Old Trafford. "The euphoria for me evaporates very quickly as I lock the memories away and start to prepare for the next challenge," Ferguson said.

"I expect the players to follow that lead and I know they will because, as always, I have studied their reactions and I am satisfied that the driving hunger for more success is still burning within them."

Ferguson is undaunted by facing off against Luiz Felipe Scolari, the new coach of United's closest rival for title honours, Chelsea.

"I read that Scolari is more experienced than me," Ferguson said of the man who led Brazil to victory in the 2002 World Cup. "What have I been doing for the last 34 years? I must have missed something or been asleep somewhere.

"They are saying because of Scolari's experience Chelsea are going to win the league. I do not understand that."

Goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar sees no reason why United shouldn't be equally successful this season.

"The core of the team is still the same," Van der Sar said. "During the season we are bound to suffer setbacks, every team does. There will be injuries, loss of form, red cards and clearly we need luck at crucial times."

Luck hasn't been forthcoming ahead of Sunday's season-opener against Newcastle. While Cristiano Ronaldo was denied his wish to join Real Madrid, the top-scoring winger is due to be sidelined until October with an ankle injury.

Wayne Rooney is also in doubt as he recovers from a virus. That leaves Carlos Tevez as the only regular striker available unless Ferguson completes his first major signing of the off-season. By contrast, Scolari has added Deco and Jose Bosingwa to his squad and still hopes to buy Robinho from Real Madrid.

Ferguson is excited about his young squad's development, but still sees key roles for veteran players.

"The likes of Anderson, Rooney, Nani and Ronaldo - they're all going to progress," he said. "The young lads will continue to progress. I'm looking for big things from them, and hopefully that progression will help us retain the trophies we won.

"We also have the experience of the likes of Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Gary Neville. They're remarkable men." And great role models.

"They've led their lives the right way," Ferguson said. "Their desires have never changed and, as a result, they've had great success."