Rio Ferdinand continues to back Manchester City as the favorites to clinch the Premier League crown over Arsenal and Liverpool, despite his personal hopes for a different victor.
Currently, a mere point divides the trio at the summit of the league, marking one of the most closely contested title races in the league’s annals.
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The Gunners claimed the top spot with a 2-0 victory against Luton Town on Wednesday evening, while the Citizens secured a commanding 4-1 win over Aston Villa.
Expectations are set for the Reds to reclaim the lead on Thursday night in their match against the league’s tailender, Sheffield United.
Ferdinand, speaking before Wednesday’s fixtures, reiterated his belief that City is poised to hoist the trophy in May, though he conceded his preference lies elsewhere.
‘On paper, I think Man City have got the easier run-in and experience is going to play a big part,’ the Manchester United legend told TNT Sports.
‘Liverpool have three away games against teams that you wouldn’t say are big teams [Fulham, Everton and West Ham] but three away games [in a row] are difficult. Aston Villa away as well and obviously Manchester United away at the weekend.
‘Arsenal have the toughest run-in and Man City… I’ve said this from the beginning of the season and I’ll continue to say this now [they are favourites].
‘I don’t want them to win it, I’ve got to be honest!’
Put to him that he didn’t want any of the three teams to win, Ferdinand said: ‘I’d take Arsenal winning it right now. Over Liverpool and Man City, 100 per cent. It’s not a difficult one for me!’
In theory, Manchester City faces the most challenging path, needing to overturn a deficit to emerge victorious. However, their history of successful comebacks, notably the previous season’s, is why Ferdinand is confident in their eventual victory.
He added: ‘I don’t think it matters to them [being the chasers]. When you’re in that position experience counts for a lot.
‘But what I would say is that momentum is key. They drew at the weekend and that’s a huge disappointment from a Man City perspective because they expect to win every game here.
‘They need to get back on that journey of being consistent and churning out win after win. If Man City win today the momentum will swing to them because of that experience.’
