O’Shea: ‘Man City are odds-on favorites’

Since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013,

have not been able to win the

title.

Although the Red Devils reached the summit this season, they slipped from it after only winning one of their last four games and Now

are the leaders.

Former Manchester United defender

John O’Shea

, who enjoyed five title triumphs during his time at Old Trafford, admits that the Red Devils need to bounce back soon if they want to prevent their neighbors from emerging victorious.

“They are odds-on favorites,” O’Shea said.

“It’s been a blow for United’s title hopes but you would have to expect that they will get back on a winning run again.

“That home game against Sheffield United, it can happen. The two months previous, United’s form was excellent and had to come to an end at some point.

“United were below par and they had the big chances against Arsenal, but weren’t able to take them. That’s given City the cushion with a game in hand.

“There are lots of games to come and they can get that momentum, as they have seen since Ole has been in charge – they do go on fantastic runs. Their away form is fantastic.

“They need to go on another winning run and it has to happen quickly. City are clear favorites.”

He added:

“Injury-wise, Liverpool have been very unfortunate. Generally, you can cope with one or two but they have struggled.

“Manchester United, when you look at the bench you can see quality in every position, and that’s a pleasing sign.

“City are favorites and in pole position because of their squad – and that’s at times not playing a recognized striker. With [Sergio] Aguero to come back in, it’s looking good for them.

“United were lucky last January to find [Bruno] Fernandes and you want that kind of player to come in and make an impact, and they cost a lot of money.”

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