Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp insists Premier League leaders Manchester United are no champions-elect.
In his column for The Sun, Redknapp wrote: "It could be another season of comfort and joy for Manchester United - but being top at Christmas can sometimes be a curse rather than a blessing.
"On seven previous occasions a team top on December 25 has gone on to win the title.
"United and Chelsea have done it three times, plus Blackburn. And Carlo Ancelotti at Stamford Bridge will gain some comfort in his title chase that United have twice surrendered leads at the top at Crimbo - both times to Arsenal.
"I don't agree with those who label this season as being host to a weak Premier League, I think there has been a levelling up rather than a dumbing down. But while I agree United and Chelsea are favourites, Arsenal, Man City and my own team Tottenham are capable of pulling off a real shock by nicking it."
