Round: Manchester United Contenders For Champions League Qualification

Manchester United have a 'good chance' of a top-four finish and qualifying for the Champions League after their win over Manchester City, according to former assistant manager Steve Round.

United defeated rivals Manchester City 1-0 at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, a result that leaves them just one point behind Manuel Pellegrini's side in fourth.

It was a first win in five for United, and former Old Trafford No 2 Round sees no reason why Louis van Gaal's side cannot build momentum from Sunday's victory.

Speaking on Sky Sports Now, Round said: "It was a massive win for them to stay in touching distance of the Champions League.

"I think they've got a good chance - I think they've got some momentum. They'll be getting players back fit soon - Rooney is getting fit, Ashley Young is getting fit.

"If they get momentum at United and get the crowd behind them, anything can happen. Whereas, City are dropping off the pace, and they've got a big Champions League game coming up. United can fully focus on the league and the top four."

Round, who worked under David Moyes at United, also reserved praise for Van Gaal, for persisting with the inexperienced, young players he has introduced.

Teenage striker Marcus Rashford was once again the match-winner for United and Round believes the Dutchman deserves a lot of credit for continuing to let him flourish.

"It was a massive win for Louis Van Gaal, Ryan Giggs and the staff. They went into this game and, to be fair to the manager, he stuck to his guns," Round added.

"He stuck with Rashford - he was only 16 when I was there, but there was always talk about one or two promising players in the academy coming through, and he was one of them.

"Louis van Gaal stuck with him - it was a massive game, a big atmosphere and it was live on TV. And he's come through and delivered. There has to be big credit for the manager for sticking to his guns."

However, while Round says United have an excellent chance of Champions League qualification, he insists anyone down to Liverpool in ninth position still has a chance of edging into the top four.

"I think the top three (Leicester, Tottenham and Arsenal) are out there now - nobody can catch them. So, it's going to be one from the next four," said Round.

"Southampton are still in it, Liverpool are knocking on the door and West Ham have had a fantastic season as well.

"West Ham have got to keep feet on ground, but enjoy the moment. They've got to try and win a cup and try and get into the Champions League."

Credit: Skysports.com