Manchester United have ‘got fitter’ to become Liverpool’s challengers alongside Man City, leaving Chelsea and Tottenham behind

Manchester United and Manchester City are the only two clubs who can challenge Liverpool for the Premier League title, Tony Cascarino believes.

The Red Devils edged to a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa on Friday evening thanks to a second-half Bruno Fernandes penalty, which put them level with Liverpool on points.

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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men are now only in second on goal difference and talkSPORT host Cascarino believes just United and their bitter rivals City can prevent Liverpool from retaining their crown.

“This season’s going to be a real one off year. Liverpool aren't’ quite as good and I’ve said this from the start," he told the Weekend Sports Breakfast.

“The title's going to go between the two Manchester clubs and Liverpool.

“I don’t see Tottenham and didn’t see Chelsea.

“There’s still work to be done between those two clubs.”

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Casc also suggested that United’s fitness levels have improved significantly and that will aid them in their title charge as Premier League clubs battle the intense festive schedule.

He added: “There was a lot of players who looked in really good shape physically. They are far better than they were last season and condition  is a massive thing in sport and sportspeople.

“United showed that last night.”

Liverpool can go three points clear at the top of the Premier League if they beat Southampton on Monday evening.