Ferguson explains why Man Utd are 'unlucky' not to be challenging Chelsea

Sir Alex Ferguson considers Manchester United to have been “unlucky” this season but believes Champions League qualification is within reach.

The Red Devils have undergone another period of transition in 2016-17, the third time they have had to make such adjustments since seeing an iconic presence depart the dugout in 2013.

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On the back of Ferguson’s retirement, United have struggled for stability and consistency.

David Moyes and Louis van Gaal have come and gone without ever threatening to build a dynasty similar to that of a legendary predecessor.

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24 May 202611:00

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The signs are more encouraging under Jose Mourinho, however, and Ferguson feels the Portuguese would be overseeing a Premier League title challenge had United got what they deserved at Old Trafford.

“He’s been a bit unlucky actually because there are home games this season they’ve been absolutely brilliant in but have drawn them,” Ferguson told SiriusXM FC.

“If they’d got those wins they deserved they’d be challenging for the league, there’s no doubt about that.”

United have been held seven times on home soil this season, with 10 draws collected in total to sit fifth in the Premier League table.

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They have, however, tasted EFL Cup success to complement a top-four challenge, while also progressing to the quarter-finals of the Europa League.

Ferguson believes there is still all to play for at Old Trafford, with there every reason to believe that the Red Devils will make the most of at least one route back to European football’s top table.

He added: “The season is still alive.

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“They’ve won the League Cup and are in the Europa League and I think they’ve got a great chance there.

"It’s very important now because if you win it, you’re into the Champions League. 

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“At the moment the Premier League is a real fight for the positions behind Chelsea with Tottenham, Arsenal, Liverpool, ourselves.

"It’s not going to be easy to get into the top four.

“They could do it but I look on the Europa League as a great chance.”