Man Utd legend Jaap Stam makes shock Premier League top-four prediction

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Manchester United have only won three of their first seven league games and sit just 10th in the Premier League ahead of Sunday’s huge clash against Liverpool. Despite United’s miserable form, Stam says the start of the season ‘has not been a disaster’ for his former club and has backed them to finish in the top-four.

Liverpool stormed to the Premier League title last season (Picture: Getty) ‘I would pick Liverpool, Arsenal, Manchester City, and Manchester United for the top four, with Chelsea in close contention,’ Stam told Sky Bet. ‘These five have the squads and consistency to compete for the Champions League places. ‘Bournemouth or Crystal Palace could make a push, but it’s hard to maintain that level through the season. Jaap Stam's Premier League top-four prediction Liverpool Arsenal Manchester City Manchester United ‘The big clubs will end up there again because of the quality of players they have in their squad.’ Pressed on United’s hopes for the season, Stam added: ‘At the start of the season, I said the top four should be the target for Manchester United. ‘They’re only a few points off that, so it’s not a disaster.

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are currently top of the table (Picture: Getty) ‘Arsenal can win the league this season,’ said Stam, who won the Premier League three times with Manchester United. ‘Mikel Arteta has built a team with quality and a clear playing style that’s hard to play against. They’re consistent with how they’re playing; they are top of the league and now they need to keep it up until the end of the season. ‘I wouldn’t say Mikel Arteta’s job should immediately be on the line [if Arsenal don’t win any trophies], but there will be pressure. ‘When you’ve been backed and invested heavily, expectations rise.