Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has urged his teammates to step up their game to increase their chances of successfully defending their Premier League title this season.

The Red Devils, who will host leaders Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday, are currently eighth in the table, eight points off the pace.

"I don't think we've shown ourselves this season on a consistent basis, not just in the big games," Sky Sports News quotes the centre-back as saying.

"It is time to start putting our foot on the pedal and motor on. We have to do that if we want to remain in contention to win the league.

"Arsenal are in a good vein of form. They are the team to catch. We have to make sure we are right and ready for the challenge."

Ferdinand added that United need to go on a winning run if they want to maintain their title challenge.

"We have to win every game," said the 34-year-old. "It doesn't matter what game it is or whoever we play against.

"Whether it's a top of the league team or not, we have to get points. Nothing changes - we expect to win every game we play at home."

Arsenal are the current league leaders with 25 points from 10 matches.