Carrick: United have the edge March 19 2008
Michael Carrick believes Manchester United will defend their Premier League crown because they "know how to get over that finishing line".
The Red Devils enter the nine-game finishing straight against Bolton on Wednesday night level on points with Arsenal and three points ahead of Chelsea.
Many questions have been asked about the Gunners' inexperience in a title run-in - which has manifested itself in four straight draws in the top flight - and Carrick is clearly alluding to that weakness.
"We have some big games coming up and between now and the end a lot more points will be won and lost," he told Manchester United Radio.
"We believe we are the best team and hopefully time is going to prove that.
"Hopefully we have the edge in terms of experience. You can always pull on experience to get you through certain situations. Going through it all before is a help. It is not identical to last season, but it is close to it.
"We know how to get over that finishing line and in first place. That can benefit us."
The Trotters have already beaten the reigning champions in the league this season and United midfielder Darren Fletcher is aware of the threat they will pose at Old Trafford.
He said: "There are going to be a lot more twists and turns in the title race as we all have to play each other.
"We have to focus on trying to win every league game but we know it is going to be difficult against Bolton. They are down there fighting to stay in the league while we are fighting to win it. It makes it a tough game.
"Bolton are a physical side and hard to break down. They pose a threat from set-pieces and thrown-ins. They will pose us problems and we have to counter that."