Ray Wilkins issues blunt warning to Man United ahead of Arsenal clash

Ray Wilkins has warned Manchester United that they must beat Arsenal to keep their top-four hopes alive on Saturday.

The Red Devils head into the game eight points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool after a stuttering start to the season under new boss Jose Mourinho at Old Trafford.

United have struggled to find consistent form under their new manager and are currently six points behind Arsenal in the top-flight table.

And former Manchester United star Wilkins has warned Mourinho and his team that there is little margin for error when they host Arsene Wenger’s men this weekend.

Speaking in an interview with Sky Sports, Wilkins said: “Manchester United cannot afford to let Arsenal win at the weekend. Arsenal will bounce clear, and you can’t be giving teams three-game swings at his stage of the season.

“For United to finish in the top four they’ve got to beat Arsenal on Saturday, and it’s going to be tough.”

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Manchester United are looking to make it back to back wins in the Premier League after their 3-1 victory over Swansea City in the top flight before the international break.

The Red Devils finished fifth and won the FA Cup under Louis van Gaal last season before the Dutchman was sacked in May and replaced by Mourinho.