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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Alex James

Manchester United told what they need to become Premier League title challengers

Manchester United are closer to winning the Premier League than Newcastle United, believes former Old Trafford goalkeeper Tim Howard.

The two clubs are battling for a spot in the top four and Champions League football next term. Both recorded midweek wins as the Magpies won 5-1 at West Ham while Erik ten Hag's edged past Brentford 1-0.

It means the pair are locked together on 53 points, with Eddie Howe's side in third ahead of United on goal difference. Both teams will be able to take positive from progressive seasons, even if the gap to leading pair Arsenal and Manchester City remains vast.

Read next: How the United players rated vs Brentford

Newcastle, bolstered by increased spending power following their takeover, and United will want to push on next term and move closer to challenging at the top of the tale. But it's United who Howard feels are the more likely to win a title of the two.

"I think probably Manchester United even though Newcastle are having the better season," said the American, who spent four years at Old Trafford. "Because they are only a few players away, United. Bolstering the midfield, getting some depth and ultimately getting a top-class goalscorer so ultimately I think United but Newcastle are right there."

United welcome Everton to Old Trafford at the weekend while Newcastle visit Brentford. Tottenham and Brighton, in fifth and sixth and with Champions League hopes of their own, meet in the capital.

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