United assistant Manager, Mike Phelan believes that United are in a better position than last year when considering the difference in points. 

His view comes after the defeat to Villa at Old Trafford, which saw us fail to capitalize on Chelsea' draw to Everton. A win would have put us level on points with Chelsea but we now lie 3 points of the top.

Phelan also believes that the standard of competition has improved, making it a tougher and closer league. Evidence of that can be seen with City, Liverpool, Spurs and Villa all competing to ensure a top four finish in the league. Arsenal could claw their way back in the title race with both United and Chelsea dropping points on Saturday.