Sir Alex Ferguson says it's too soon to say Manchester United are title contenders this season.

United have collected 26 points from the last 30 on offer in the Premier League and sit level on points with Liverpool at the summit, with the added bonus of having a game in hand on Jurgen Klopp's side, to be played against Burnley next week.

Liverpool are winless in their three games since Christmas and victory at Turf Moor will ensure United go to Anfield on January 17 three points ahead of the champions.

Ferguson gave a short verdict on the title race when speaking with the Daily Mail: "It's not an easy road to get back into challenging for the league. It's a difficult league these days."