‘Big game’: Gary Neville makes eye-catching Man United claim before Aston Villa battle

Manchester United are set to host Aston Villa in a crucial Premier League clash this Sunday.

Both teams currently sit on 51 points but the Red Devils hold an advantage due to superior goal difference.

Former United captain Gary Neville has backed his old club to edge the contest.

He said on The Overlap: “2-1 United. Big game on Sunday in top four”.

The Red Devils head into the clash after suffering their first defeat since Michael Carrick took charge as head coach.

Despite being reduced to ten men, Newcastle United snatched a dramatic winner in the 90th minute, leaving the travelling United supporters stunned.

Carrick will now be determined to guide his side back to winning ways at a crucial stage of the season.

The upcoming contest is potentially a six-pointer in the race for the top four.

A victory for United would move them onto 54 points and potentially create a six-point gap to rivals Chelsea and Liverpool.

However, defeat for the Red Devils could allow one of those chasing teams to draw level on points.

Chelsea currently boast a healthy goal difference of +20, meaning they would leapfrog United if the points tally became identical.

An impressive run of form under Carrick has given United the luxury of controlling their own destiny in the race for UEFA Champions League qualification.

With just seven games remaining in the campaign, the Red Devils simply cannot afford to let this golden opportunity slip away.

(Also read: Macheda magic, 1993 title drama & heartbreak: Five unforgettable Man United vs Aston Villa Premier League clashes)

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .