United are taking a 'big step backwards' in the race for top four

Should United taking a backwards step in race for top 4.? Let's discuss about this article in the comments line.

Former Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov has warned the Red Devils they are 'taking a step backwards' in the race for top four amid reports the players are not happy.

United have endured a disappointing season and currently sit sixth in the Premier League.

The club brought in interim manager Ralf Rangnick following the dismissal of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the hope that the German would turn their fortunes around.

But, despite a slightly improved defensive record, the Red Devils have still appeared lacklustre and suffered a humiliating defeat to Middlesbrough on penalties in the FA Cup last week.

Amid the disappointing results, some at Old Trafford are said to be unhappy with Rangnick's management methods.

Berbatov believes the issues within the dressing room could lead to further problems at the club and urged Rangnick to move away from 'old school' methods.

'I've read the latest reports that some of United players aren't apparently happy with how training is going,' he told Betfair.

'If there is some truth to the reports and the training is a bit old school then it's a problem because football is different now and you have to keep up with the times.

'I'm not saying completely step away from the old school way of training but you have to prepare for matches a bit differently now. Coaches have to adjust and adapt and get with the times.

'Rangnick hasn't managed a team of United's stature before, and I hope that if there is some unhappiness with training then things get sorted quickly.

'There are a lot of experienced players in the dressing room, like Ronaldo and Pogba, and if training isn't inspiring and players start to moan, I can see there being problems.'

United only managed to scrape a point against Aston Villa and rock-bottom Burnley in recent weeks, threatening their position in the race for top four.

Berbatov claimed that missing out on those 'must win' matches has forced the club to take a 'big step backwards'.

'If you don't win games against bottom of the table teams then success become a struggle. Manchester United's game against Burnley was a must win and they failed,' he added.

'It doesn't matter how, you just need to get the three points in these games. United didn't get the win last time out and that's not good.

'On paper, there's a big gap in class between their squad and Burnley's but they have to show that on the pitch as well. They've taken a big step backwards in the top four race.

'If you don't win games against teams lower down the table then you will have issues, it's no good just turning up in matches against the leading quartet.

'If United don't get all three points in these kinds of matches from now on then I don't think they will qualify for the Champions League this season.'
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