Andy Cole believes Manchester United fans should not be celebrating if the club only finish in the Premier League's top four.
United are in a battle with Tottenham , Arsenal and Chelsea over two spots in the leading quartet of the table, and a place in next season's Champions League.
The fact they are in the mix is a minor miracle, having been 11 points adrift when Ole Gunnar Solskjaer took over from the sacked Jose Mourinho in December.
During the Norwegian's caretaker tenure, United have won 10 of their 13 Premier League fixtures and have twice moved into the top four places.
The Red Devils are currently two points adrift of the Gunners, who beat then 2-0 recently.
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But former striker Cole, who previously played alongside Solskjaer at Old Trafford, thinks there should be no pride in finishing in the top four.
Cole told the BBC: "We have had three managers in that time [since Ferguson left]. Are we moving forward, are we standing still, and when we are talking about Manchester United finishing in the top four and it's time to celebrate, I am scratching my head.
"That's not something to celebrate. It's Man United. For me, you celebrate winning the league, getting to the European Cup final or winning the FA Cup, or whatever."
Cole backs Solskjaer to be handed the reins full-time - with United chiefs expected to agree with the assessment before the end of the campaign.
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"I would give him the job," Cole said.
"I have been very impressed. I don't think I am different from anyone else. He has gone in, he's galvanised the club.
"We all know this is possibly the most important appointment since Sir Alex [Ferguson] left."
