Gerrard backs United to challenge for title next season

Steven Gerrard has tipped Manchester United to be in the mix for the Premier League title in the 2017-18 season.

The Liverpool legend, who retired from football back in November, has been impressed with Jose Mourinho's side of late after they recorded two wins on the trot.

The Red Devils are currently six points behind fourth-placed Manchester City and face West Brom knowing that anything but a win will dent their hopes of claiming a Champions League spot.

Gerrard is, however, convinced that they will eventually recover and believes they are capable of challenging for the title in 2017-18.

He told BT Sport: "Everyone knows they've had a difficult few years before Jose's come in and slowly but surely they're moving forward. They're getting a settled team.

"There's a lot of players within the XI who are playing very well and the bench looks strong as well. Jose's made three or four really big signings, they're settling and doing well.

"They're only a few more pieces away from the jigsaw that'll make them compete again at the top. I think next year Manchester United will compete for the title.

"They're moving forward and playing an awful lot better than they did in previous years. They've got a chance [of the top four this season]."