Liverpool 'more of a threat' to Manchester United than Gary Neville realised

Former Red Devils captain 'worried' that United's greatest rivals could pip them to the Champions League post

Liverpool and Louis van Gaal (GETTY IMAGES)

Gary Neville has revealed he is becoming increasingly concerned by the threat of Liverpool to Manchester United's ambitions of finishing the season amongst the top four sides in the Premier League.

Brendan Rodgers' side endured a dreadful start to the season as they came to terms with the absence of Luis Suarez, but have enjoyed a run of form that has seen them go undefeated in the league since losing 3-0 to Manchester United in mid-December.

Liverpool are now just two points behind Louis van Gaal's side and on current form many are backing them as likelier contenders to clinch one of the much coveted Champions League places.

Neville still regards his former side as slight favourites, but admits he is becoming increasingly worried.

"The biggest compliment I can give to Liverpool for the way they are currently playing is I left Anfield (where he was co-commentating for Sky Sports) on Sunday a worried man," he wrote in the Telegraph.

"For the first time this season I am concerned as to whether Manchester United can fight them off in the scrap for the Champions league places.

"I’ve backed United all season, and I won’t be changing my mind at this stage, but it’s fair to say Liverpool have emerged as much more of a threat than I considered a few weeks ago."

Liverpool could end the day above Manchester United with both teams in action this evening. Manchester United play away against Newcastle whilst Liverpool host Burnley at Anfield.