Erik ten Hag discusses Man Utd's title credentials

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is not yet ready to label his side as Premier League title contenders.

The Red Devils are in great form and have climbed to within a point of rivals Manchester City in second place. Should Pep Guardiola's side fail to win at Chelsea on Thursday, United could leapfrog them with a victory in next week's Manchester derby at Old Trafford.

With optimism rising among fans again, United have been tipped as outside contenders to challenge for the title.

But speaking after Tuesday's 3-0 win against Bournemouth, Ten Hag was quick to temper these expectations.

"That is a big step, no, we have to go from game to game and get the progress," he replied when asked if United are ready to contend for the title. "The belief is growing. That is a good signal, and it is good to have that feeling.

"We have to understand that we have to give every game 100 percent energy, 100 percent focus and 100 per cent play as a team, and if you keep that philosophy, it is possible, but you have to go from game to game.

"Don’t get too far ahead it is January not even half a season. The next game is Everton [in the FA Cup], we have to focus on that, it is coming quick, enjoy 24 hours and then move on."