Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez has revealed United’s likelihood of making it into the top four.

The Red Devil opened the account of the 2019 football year with a 2-0 victory at Saint James Park. Romelu Lukaku and Marcus Rashford scored to ensure that the Ole Gunnar Solskjaer extended his run of form as interim boss to four games.

Manchester United prior to the game against Newcastle, has scored 11 times in Solskjaer’s first three Premier League games in charge after notching up victories over Cardiff City, Huddersfield Town and Bournemouth to dramatically change the mood at Old Trafford.

In an interview with the media following Manchester United victory, Rafa Benitez explained why Manchester United needs to finish in top four spot.

“It’s a team that has to be easily in the top four, that is very clear,” Benitez said.

“They can compete against Manchester City, Liverpool, anyone. We are talking about one of the biggest clubs in the world in terms of everything.

“The players they have, they are so good that if you want to win or get points against them you have to perform really well.”

Manchester United have failed to win the Premier League title since Sir Alex Ferguson stood down as manager in 2013 following a 13th top-flight title of his reign.

The Red Devils have only finished in the top four twice in the past five seasons under David Moyes, Louis van Gaal and Mourinho.