Top four finish a priority for United

DALEY Blind has warned Manchester United need to focus on the end of this season rather than thinking about challenging for the Premier League title next year.

The 25–year–old Dutchman, who has played a significant role in United’s run of six consecutive wins, accepted rivals will have taken note of the 4–2 derby win over Manchester City.

But he insisted that while United could win the title next year, they have to focus on winning a Champions League place – starting against Chelsea tomorrow.

Blind said: “I think Manchester United is always a club fighting for the title. We have to look at ourselves. Every game is a final to the end and we have to believe in ourselves.”

Across town City defender Pablo Zabaleta has accepted the fallen champions face a battle to finish in the top four.

Zabaleta admits confidence is low after the derby loss.

Manuel Pellegrini’s men crashed to a sixth defeat in eight games in all competitions at Old Trafford – a result which left them fourth and clinging on to a Champions League place.

Ahead of Sunday’s home clash against West Ham, Zabaleta said: “It is time to analyse what we are doing wrong and try to improve for the next few games. There are still 18 points to play for.”