Roy Keane has warned Manchester United that they won't be able to burst the Manchester City and Liverpool dominance in the Premier League in the near future.
United legend Keane has watched the Red Devils drop since Sir Alex Ferguson's departure seven years ago, with bitter rivals Liverpool and City overtake them at the summit.
Pep Guardiola's City lifted the Premier League trophy in the last two seasons, with the Reds confirmed as this year's champions this week after a 30-year title drought.
And Irishman Keane has predicted United's fight for the top four, rather than silverware, will continue for the next couple of seasons.
"They're a few players off yet," Keane told the Irish Independent. "They have obviously strengthened but the league table doesn't lie. Look at their points total.
"I know people say they've had one or two decent results - against Man City and Liverpool - but it's all about the points.
So, no, I don't see United competing in the next year or two for the league.
"I think there's going to be improvement and they will close the gap, but there is a bit of work to be done for Ole and the players. They're missing something.
"They haven't been consistent enough."
United are currently sixth in the Premier League, but signs of a push for a fourth placed finish have been promising since the return to action following the coronavirus break.
Bruno Fernandes has been a revelation since his January transfer, Paul Pogba is back to full fitness, while the likes of Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial have all hit form.
But Keane thinks Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's side is still light in defence.
"People have analysed it and said United's strength at the moment is on the counter-attack. But the problem has been when they had a lot of possession; breaking teams down," Keane said.
"With one or two players coming back, United will certainly be pushing to get that fourth position but trying to get fourth and winning the league is a big leap.
"They need one or two players. I think United are short at the back."
