Jamie Redknapp has predicted that Manchester United will finish above Chelsea and Leicester in the battle for Champions League places.

The Sky Sports pundit says the main reason why he thinks the Red Devils are on course for a third-place finish is down to the teams they have to face in their final five league games:

“Manchester United have got dream fixtures up to Leicester City away. Leicester’s fixtures are difficult. If you could have anyone’s fixtures there you’d probably choose Manchester United’s right now.”

“I think Manchester United [are in pole position], looking at those fixtures and with the form they’re in. You look at Mason Greenwood and the impact Bruno Fernandes has made at that club, it’s been phenomenal. I think it will be Manchester United, Chelsea and then Leicester.”

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side have relegation strugglers Aston Villa away next up on Thursday before they host Southampton at Old Trafford. They then travel to Selhurst Park for the game against Crystal Palace, before finishing the season with matches versus West Ham and Leicester.

The trip to the King Power Stadium on the final day of the season could well be a crucial match in the battle for the top four, but we shall have to wait and see.

Of course, one thing that is worth pointing out is the Court of Arbitration for Sport’s verdict on Manchester City’s European ban later this month. If they uphold UEFA’s suspension, fifth would be enough to qualify for the Champions League.