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Liverpool will beat Manchester United to finish behind Manchester City, says Paul Merson

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Arsenal legend tips Liverpool to make Manchester United's season even worse — Manchester United have a five-point lead over Liverpool (Picture: Getty)

Former Arsenal star Paul Merson is backing Liverpool to beat Manchester United into second place behind Manchester City.

The Red Devils put a five-point gap between themselves and their Merseyside rivals with a 2-1 win against Jurgen Klopp’s men last Saturday.

However, United crashed out of the Champions League after a shock defeat to Sevilla and have to face the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal in their remaining eight fixtures.

Liverpool can close the gap to two points when they host Watford tomorrow and Merson believes Klopp’s men will finish above United.

Jurgen Klopp and Jose Mourinho during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Liverpool at Old Trafford on March 10, 2018 in Manchester, England. — Liverpool lost 2-1 to Manchester United last Saturday (Picture: Getty)

‘I fancy Liverpool to beat Manchester United into second, and this game is important for them to close down the current five-point gap,’ Merson told Sky Sports.

‘There’s a lot to play for second place, mark my words.

‘United have to play Manchester City so the gap will be two points, so Liverpool have to ensure they win these game.’

More: Manchester United FC

Jose Mourinho provided a 12-minute rant in defence of his reign on Friday afternoon and said his 18 months at the club must be viewed by what he inherited.

United take on Brighton at Old Trafford for a place in the FA Cup semi-finals and Mourinho could make a number of changes to his side that lost 2-1 to Sevilla.

MORE: Bayern Munich pull out of race to sign £50m Arsenal target Malcom

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