Neville makes top four prediction and backs Man Utd to finish above Liverpool

Gary Neville says that Manchester United will finish above Liverpool in the new Premier League season, although he admits there is “a little bit of hope” about his prediction.

Jurgen Klopp’s Reds secured the club’s first league title in 30 years in June, and they ended the season some 33 points ahead of their rivals from Old Trafford, who finished third.

Liverpool’s 19th league title took them to within one of United’s record haul of 20, but Neville doesn’t think that either will be adding to their hauls in the 2020/21 campaign as he’s backing Manchester City to win the league.

When pressed on his top four prediction by Stadium Astro he said: “I’m going to go Man City, Man United, Liverpool and Chelsea, but that’s with a little bit of hope rather than science!”

Neville’s former club have strengthened this summer by bringing in the Dutch international midfielder Donny van de Beek from Ajax, and the former defender is hopeful that United will build on the progress they made last season.

“Finishing third last season was a big moment for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer,” he continued.

“That demonstrated progression.

“I think he has to break that top-two or get close to that top-two and get close to the title.

“To get close to the top-two and win a trophy – maybe in one of the cup competition – would be acceptable. He would have to get close to winning a title by his third season [to be considered a success].

“The fans want to see progression and Manchester United have to continue to progress.”

United start their campaign at home to Crystal Palace on September 19, a week after Liverpool begin the defence of their title at home to newly-promoted Leeds.

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