Gary Neville makes new Man Utd prediction: "Can't believe I'm saying that!"

Gary Neville is stunned that he's now backing Manchester United to finish in the top three given where they were prior to Michael Carrick's arrival as they eye a Champions League return

Gary Neville admits he "cant believe" that he now thinks Manchester United will finish third given where there were before Michael Carrick took over from Ruben Amorim.

The Red Devils won a sixth game in seven outings under Carrick on Sunday as they came from behind to beat Crystal Palace. Their impressive run has seen them down the top two in Arsenal and Manchester City, and now has them poised for a return to the Champions League.

They've jumped above Chelsea, Liverpool and Aston Villa after picking up 19 points from a possible 21 and now Neville, who forever tips his former side to finish in the top four regardless of their situation, believes they will actually deliver.

The Sky Sports pundit is also hopeful that Villa will hold on to their spot in the top five. They've endured a notable dip in form - winning three of their last ten games - since the turn of the year and were beaten by bottom side Wolves last week.

He said on The Gary Neville Podcast: "I think United will definitely finish third. I can’t believe I’m saying that from where they were six weeks ago. But, they’ve got no distractions, something good is going on, all the momentum.

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"I think Liverpool finish fourth and I think Chelsea will finish fifth. I hope Villa finish in the top five, I really do. I’ve said before that their manager is an experienced and wise guy. If they get some players back; midfield players being injured have cost them in the last few weeks.

"I just think it will Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea. The only doubt will be Chelsea or Villa for fifth. Injuries will be a big factor. Other competitions will be a big factor. At the moment, they’re in danger Villa. They’re vulnerable in terms of the Champions League places."

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The teams in the hunt for the Champions League have to play each other heading into the business end of the season. In less than a fortnight United will host Villa whilst they still need to head to Stamford Bridge and host Liverpool.

Depending on the results in those games, the top five picture could continue to change. The Manchester outfit are the only side not in European competition, placing less strain on their squad and also maximising their preparation time. United have endured successive seasons outside the Champions League, but could end a three year wait if they achieve their goal this term.

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