ERIK TEN HAG reckons Manchester City and Liverpool are still top dogs in the Premier League.
That’s despite leaders Arsenal being five points clear at the top in pursuit of their first league title for 19 years.
GettyErik ten Hag’s side are currently fourth in the Premier League[/caption]
Reigning champions City are their closest challengers, while Liverpool are lingering down in sixth, SIXTEEN points behind the Gunners.
But prior to this season, the two North East duo have set the standards in English football with their recent battles some of the most intense in Prem history.
Meanwhile, Manchester United, who’ve won seven games on the bounce in all comps, are currently fourth.
And Ten Hag believes City and Liverpool are the two clubs the Red Devils need to beat.
He said: “I think we should be satisfied with where we are now given the bumps encountered in the early part of the season.
“We are not yet competitive with Manchester City – and I still see that club as a step too high at the moment.
“I also expect Liverpool to be right back – and I see them, together with City, as the two teams to beat in England.
“Also, Arsenal are having a super season and are already far ahead in the league.
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“We have to battle with Chelsea, Newcastle and Spurs for the Champions League ticket, so the competition is huge.
“The club’s aim is to play in the Champions League again.
“That should always be our goal. If we achieve that, it will feel like our championship.”
United could move within a point of their noisy neighbours if they win next Sunday’s Manchester derby.
But the Old Trafford club have a Carabao Cup quarter-final with Charlton to focus on before as they look to end their seven-year wait for a trophy.