Former Manchester United and Liverpool star Michael Owen has made a surprise claim by stating that the Red Devils are not far off from the quality of Jurgen Klopp's side.

The Red Devils have made an average start to the current season with just one win from the opening four matches and this sees them seven points off the Reds at the top of the Premier League standings.

Speaking to ESPN, Owen said that the Red Devils have players, who are equal in terms of ability with the Reds and they just need to find the right balance to compete with their cross-town rivals.

"I don't necessarily think the players are all that bad, I think when you look at other teams, look at Liverpool for example, are Manchester United players far inferior to Liverpool's? I don't necessarily think so," he said.

Manchester United return from the international break with a home game against Leicester City. Liverpool, on the other hand, will entertain Newcastle United at Anfield this weekend.