Neville 'concerned' over Reds form

Gary Neville (r): Concerned that Liverpool could pip his beloved United

Gary Neville has admitted that he is "concerned" that a resurgent Liverpool could qualify for the Champions League ahead of Manchester United.

After Sunday's thrilling 2-1 win over Premier League champions Manchester City, Liverpool have picked up 26 points from a possible 30, and remain without defeat in the league since mid-December - a 3-0 reverse to United.

This run of form has seen them close the gap on the top four from eight points to just two, while United's then-10-point lead over their bitter rivals has been chopped to the same two points.

Neville, who starred for United from 1992 until 2011, has previously backed Louis van Gaal to lead his former club into the Premier League's top four this season, this despite criticism over the side's playing style.

However, after watching Liverpool continue their fine form with a brilliant victory over Manchester City, Neville has admitted that he is "concerned" for the first time over United's top four prospects.

In his column for the Daily Telegraph, Neville said: "The biggest compliment I can give to Liverpool for the way they are currently playing is I left Anfield on Sunday a worried man.

"For the first time this season I am concerned as to whether Manchester United can fight them off in the scrap for the Champions League places.

I’ve backed United all season, and I won’t be changing my mind at this stage, but it’s fair to say Liverpool have emerged as much more of a threat than I considered a few weeks ago."

Neville was particularly impressed with Reds boss Brendan Rodgers for leading his side to a crucial three points against City, but also reserved praise for the Northern Irishman's ability to turn Liverpool's season around.

"I arrived at Anfield expecting City to reassert themselves in the title race and make their extra few days preparation.

"It both impressed and concerned me to see Liverpool play as they did.

Brendan Rodgers deserved credit for the way he reacted to what was happening as "the game evolved, ensuring an even first half became a much more dominant second period for the home side.

"Liverpool look as well equipped as any side to take that final Champions League spot now. They've stopped conceding goals, have found a system that works for their players and have their high intensity game back."

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