Ferdinand believes that alongside United, Liverpool and Chelsea are the only teams capable of taking the title race to the wire comes the end of the season.

"It is not beyond Arsenal but it is my personal opinion that it will be between the other three this season," Ferdinand was quoted as saying by The Sun.

After starting the season as strong contenders, Arsenal are now fifth in the table, while United are third behind leaders Liverpool and second-placed Chelsea.

"At the moment it looks like being nip and tuck but usually from Christmas onwards the teams who are going to be there at the end start pulling away.

"I can see that happening this season. I presume ourselves, Chelsea and Liverpool will pull away, then it will be down to two and finally one."

Manchester United are currently in Japan to take part in the FIFA Club World Cup competition where they will face Gamba Osaka in the semi-final.