Ryan Giggs - Experience will tell

Ryan Giggs believes Manchester United's past experience of title chases offers them the upper hand in this season's Premier League pursuit.

The Red Devils have secured 12 top-flight titles under Sir Alex Ferguson, taking their overall tally to a record-breaking 19.

Having been there and done it on some many previous occasions, United are confident that they can once again come out on top in the race to secure English football's most prestigious prize.

At present, arch-rivals Manchester City lead the way, with the Blues holding a two-point advantage at the summit.

Giggs, who has been involved in all 12 of United's Premier League successes to date, appreciates that City have put themselves in pole position to take the crown, but says United have the hunger and desire required to overhaul their neighbours.

"I think in most people's eyes they're favourites because they're top of the league, and because of the quality they've got, and the football they played early season," the 38-year-old told United's official website.

"You can't ignore the money and the quality they've got, and their strength in depth.

"They're obviously trying to lay the foundations for 10, 20, 30 years. Whether it happens or not we'll have to wait and see.

"It's just down to which team handles it (pressure) best.

"They've got a lot of experience, they've got players who've won things, but we like to think we've got a good mix of experience and hunger.

"I think the experience of doing it before with the manager (is key).

"We've got older players who've been there, and younger players who haven't and really want to win things, so hopefully that's in our favour."