Michael Owen has dismissed Manchester United's title credentials and believes Manchester City remain a bigger threat to Liverpool.
United moved level on points with the Reds at the top of the Premier League table on Friday night following a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa.
Jurgen Klopp's men can reestablish their three-point cushion on Monday night when they head to St Mary's to face Southampton after back-to-back draws.
But United could be back level on points with Liverpool ahead of their crunch clash at Anfield on January 17, if they're victorious with their game in hand against Burnley on January 12.
City, meanwhile, sit seven points adrift of both clubs in eighth, although they have played two games fewer.
Despite United's good recent form, Owen still holds reservations about their ability to break down low-block opposition and says they're too reliant on Bruno Fernandes, adding that he feels City still have a bigger chance of challenging Liverpool.
"I’m not sure they can win the title with (just) him (Fernandes) to be honest. I think they’re a brilliant counter-attacking team, against the bigger and better teams they are exceptional and can give anyone a problem.
"The question I have is when they’re in possession against teams like Wolves and trying to break them down.
"I watched them the other day and there were no chances. Listen, they’re right in the mix, no question about it.
"They’re second on goal difference, but are they as rounded a team as Liverpool or Man City? I still think they’re a step behind and I still think it will be a struggle for them to win the title. But the way they’re playing, anything is possible."
