Defeat at Bayern Munich and an injury to Wayne Rooney as well was followed by another loss against Chelsea at Old Trafford yesterday that cost United the Barclays Premier League leadership and makes them outsiders to claim a record fourth successive title.

Little wonder there was a feeling of trepidation amongst fans leaving Old Trafford about the impending return leg against Bayern, who could be bolstered by returns of Arjen Robben and Bastian Schweinsteiger.

But Vidic insists there is no point feeling down about the situation. It is at times like these when United need to show some character.

“We were down after the Bayern game but we cannot afford to be down again,” said the Serbian.

“We need to get our heads up and face the facts.

“We have lost two games but we shouldn’t feel sorry for ourselves.

“We need to seize the moment and make sure we finish well this season.”

Having Rooney available would be the most obvious way of restoring fortunes, although according to Alex Ferguson his 34-goal forward will be missing for at least another week – even if the feeling persists he might be back sooner.

However, there must be a marked improvement in United’s normally reliable method of keeping possession as a failure in that department proved costly in both their recent defeats.

In Premier League terms, though, the demand is straightforward.

Two points adrift of Chelsea, with an inferior goal difference, Vidic knows only victories will do from now on.

“Chelsea have just the league and the FA Cup to focus on, which helps them, but if we win all five games then we still have a good chance,” he said.

“I hope there will be more twists and turns and there will be more dropped points before the end.”