COBHAM (England) - CHELSEA manager Carlo Ancelotti has warned Manchester United that his side are in the mood to deliver a substantial blow to the champions' bid to retain the Premier League title.

The Blues can move five points clear of United with victory at Stamford Bridge on Sunday and Ancelotti believes the leaders' impressive recent form and formidable home record provides the perfect foundation to claim a crucial win.

Ancelotti's team have won all eight of their home matches under the Italian and haven't conceded a goal in front of their own fans since the opening day of the season when Stephen Hunt struck for Hull.

They are also unbeaten in their last five matches in all competitions and have scored 19 goals in the process.

Ancelotti can also take heart from United's slightly unconvincing form so far this season. Their defence has been a particular cause of concern for United manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who will be without England centre-back Rio Ferdinand on Sunday due to a back injury.

The former AC Milan coach knows that even a team as strong as United has weaknesses that can be exploited. 'I think Manchester United have a very good team. Like us, they are doing very well because they have qualified in the Champions League and have done very well in the Premiership. But every team is vulnerable. There is not a team that is invincible.' -- AFP