Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand, has said that Aston Villa should be seen as title contenders this season.
Villa are currently on a nine-game winning streak in all competitions and within three points of Arsenal at the top of the table.
Villa came from behind to beat West Ham 3-2 over the weekend at the London Stadium.
The Villains will play Manchester United next weekend and former Red Devils defender, Ferdinand said the Unai Emery’s side should be overlooked in the title race.
He added, however, that Manchester City have one big ‘advantage’ over Arsenal and Villa that could prove crucial come the business end of the season.
Speaking on Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel, the former England defender said of Villa, “They have to be[considered title contendrs].
“My only concern with them if we’re comparing them with Arsenal and Manchester City… City are the only ones with experience of winning and know how to do it so that puts them at an advantage.
“City and Arsenal both have deep squads.
“Whereas I look at Aston Villa and if Ollie Watkins gets injured then they could be bang in trouble. If Morgan Rogers gets injured, who hit two at the weekend, then they’re bang in trouble.”