Former Manchester United No2 Mike Phelan is backing his old club to win the Premier League this coming season.
Under the stewardship of Louis van Gaal, United have enjoyed an unbeaten tour of America following a disastrous campaign with David Moyes at the helm last year.
Phelan told talkSPORT: "I don't see why not. Some people will probably scoff at that, but everybody is improving year on year.
"United did take a backward step a little bit, but it is well within their capabilities to surprise a lot of people and rise to the occasion. They look now as though they have got belief in themselves.
"Obviously pre-season is pre-season. They have got to come back now and get some consistency in the league but there will be excitement there.
"They have got, in Van Gaal, somebody with terrific experience and great motivation. Add that to the ingredients already at Old Trafford, in the supporters and the expectation. I'm sure they could be right up there."
For the big stories and the banter follow us on Twitter: @tribalfootball