Alex Ferguson admitted his selection gamble has paid off after Manchester United move 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League with a 2-0 win over Everton on Sunday.
.
With United facing a tricky Champions League last 16 first leg tie at Real Madrid on Wednesday, Ferguson had originally planned to make seven changes to his team against Everton in a bid to keep his key players fresh for the trip to Spain.
.
But when Ferguson saw that second placed Manchester City had suffered a shock defeat at Southampton on Saturday, the United manager changed his mind and sent out a full-strength line-up.
.
Ferguson's decision to go for the kill paid off handsomely as first half goals from Ryan Giggs and Robin van Persie left United with one hand on the trophy with 12 games to play.
.
Meanwhile, United winger Giggs expects his squad's strength in depth will be the decisive factor in the title run-in.
12 points clear! Manchester city, catch us if you can