Dimitar Berbatov has told Manchester United they need to start turning up against the Premier League’s lesser teams if they’re to have any hope of finishing fourth this season.
United head into their clash with Southampton on Saturday looking for a response after suffering a major setback in their chase for the top four in midweek.
Having dropped points in their 1-1 draw at Burnley, Ralf Rangnick’s side found themselves falling behind both West Ham and Arsenal, and although Tottenham game them a big let-off with their defeat to the Saints, they still have two games in hand in order to put the Reds further back.
After carrying an advantage into the international break after their win over the Hammers, the mood has once again turned sour at Old Trafford following a disappointing return to action, with the point at Turf Moor coming after their defeat to Middlesbrough in the FA Cup.
And former United striker Berbatov has warned his old side they’ll stand no chance of reaching the top four if results like Tuesday’s at Burnley continue.
“If you don't win games against bottom of the table teams then success become a struggle,” Berbatov told Betfair.
“Manchester United's game against Burnley was a must-win and they failed. 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, there are 15 other teams in the league you must defeat.
“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.
“These are the types of games where you need to win ugly because Burnley like to bully opposition and they will always fight. United have to be smart in these kinds of matches and know how to win ugly, if not then it will just be a sixth-place finish at the end of the season.”
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