Man Utd closing in on Man City but gap 'still huge', says Ferdinand

Rio Ferdinand thinks Manchester United are "closing the gap slightly" on Manchester City after their spectacular derby victory, but believes the gap between the clubs is "still huge".

United came from behind to claim the derby spoils after a 2-1 victory at Old Trafford, where Jack Grealish's header was canceled out by a quick brace from Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford.

Erik ten Hag's side have closed the gap on their second-place neighbors to just one point, where they are now just six behind leaders Arsenal.

Ferdinand, who has won six Premier League titles and the Champions League with United, however believes his former club still have a long way to go before they can match their rivals.

"They are closing the gap slightly, but there is still a lot to do," said Ferdinand in his role as BT Sport pundit. "I think the gap between the clubs is still huge.

"Don't let this result win you out or let things get unrealistic. Man United still have a ways to go but they are on the right track now. I felt something in that ground today that I hadn't felt for a very long time.

"There was a belief, there was a connection again between the players on the pitch and the fans, because there is a committed team that is ready to fight, that will not bend under pressure , which will not bend when there is a bad spell in play.

"It can only be good for the future of this team. The manager must have huge compliments right now because he is building a team that is ready to fight."

Meanwhile Paul Scholes - 11-time Premier League winner at Old Trafford - believes United have demonstrated their league titles, but he knows the most important step of the season is yet to come.

"We learned that United can beat a great team when the pressure is on, when they need it," he said. "You've already asked if they're in the hunt for the title - I think you have to say they are.

"If they keep people fit, they're a point behind City now. City, for me, are still the favourites, they're still the best team in this league. It's good to win games now, but it's in March, April that it's so hard to win these games.

“Arsenal are doing very well, they look like a very good team. Injuries could affect them, and they are inexperienced. players who haven't really won trophies.

"There are 20, 21 games left. There is so much to go - that could change by February."