Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson was satisfied to start 2007 sitting seven points clear at the top of the Barclays Premiership despite being pegged back by Newcastle.

The Red Devils led 2-1 and seemed certain to extend their winning run to four games at St James' Park until 19-year-old defender David Edgar marked his home debut with a 73rd-minute equaliser to give Chelsea a glimmer of hope.

Ferguson said: ""I said at the start of November, if we can get to New Year's Day top of the league, I would be absolutely delighted."