United's title hopes in the gutter after goalless draw

Manchester United's hopes of claiming a fourth successive English Premier League title have taken a huge knock after they were held to a 0-0 draw at Blackburn on Sunday.

United were missing talismanic England striker Wayne Rooney through injury -- and they lacked a cutting edge in attack against a Blackburn side who have also held Chelsea and Liverpool to home draws this season.

Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov, who has been overshadowed by Rooney's superb form this season, had the best chance to win a tight match with 10 minutes to go, but he shot straight at goalkeeper Paul Robinson from near the penalty spot after good work on the right from Paul Scholes.

The result leaves United still a point behind leaders Chelsea, but have played a game more than the London side.