Nemanja Matic feels Manchester United are starting to reap the rewards of younger players maturing and believes a '10 or 20 per cent' improvement in their performances could see them challenge for the title next season.
United are the Premier League's form team at the moment, with Matic having turned himself into a key member of a flourishing midfield.
His impressive performances saw him rewarded with a new contract earlier this month, something which didn't appear likely as he struggled for game time earlier in the season.
The 31-year-old admits it was difficult to play in a team full of younger players but says United's decision to stick with them is starting to pay dividends.
"I have to be honest: it was not always easy to be in our team because we had a lot of young players, with no experience of playing at the highest level," Matic told Stats Perform News, via Goal.
"But that was a period of transition of our team and I think in the last few years many players matured a lot.
"I have to mention Rashford, Martial, Greenwood, so many players matured a lot.
"They know they have a lot of responsibility; they play every game.
"I am happy to see them improving, taking responsibility and I am sure this team can only improve.
"It was difficult for us in the past because we were inconsistent, but I think the team is ready, more experienced. If we can improve 10 or 20 per cent more then we can challenge for the title next season."
