Ex-Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham believes that his former club do have a “real chance” of finishing in the top four this season.

While he feels that the Red Devils will continue to be inconsistent as manager Erik ten Hag establishes his philosophy, Sheringham claims he is seen enough to convince him that Champions League qualification is a realistic possibility:

“Erik ten Hag still has a massive job on his hands. Things go one way, then go another. That’s how it’s going to be until he lays down his foundation. With that in mind, I don’t think United have a chance to win the league, but they have shown good signs recently, there was a bit of a struggle to get over the line against West Ham, but they did anyway. Top-four is a real chance for United.”

The comprehensive win over Tottenham and the draw against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge recently do suggest that United are moving in the right direction under ten Hag.

Rebuilds do, however, take time and, as Sheringham points out, some matches will be a struggle, but the signs are there that a top four finish is achievable.

While Manchester City and Arsenal look to be dead certs for Champions League spots, the other two positions are very much up for grabs with Tottenham, Chelsea and Liverpool not looking at all convincing this campaign.