Rio Ferdinand’s warning to Manchester United will worry fans

Rio Ferdinand has delivered a stark warning that won't sit well with Manchester United fans.

Ferdinand reckons United could find themselves in a similar position to their great rivals Liverpool, and unable to recruit top players, if they miss out on the Champions League again. Jose Mourinho's side faces an uphill task to finish in the top four. They're four points behind Manchester City, with a game in hand, but play league leaders Chelsea next at Old Trafford. Liverpool are six points clear of United and in a stronger position to qualify for next season's Champions League. Here's the current top six: Rio reckons if the table remains this way, and the club fails to win the Europa League, United's summer transfer plans could be scuppered.

"Getting in the Champions League, no matter how United get there, is the remit I am sure for the manager," Ferdinand told the Manchester Evening News.

However, the former United defender said missing out on Europe's top club competition could have a deeper effect on his old club. Ferdinand claims that they could mirror Liverpool, who have, at times, struggled to attract marquee names since losing their status as a Champions League regulars.

"Liverpool are a great example. They dominated the 1980s and now in terms of fighting for players, Liverpool would come quite a way down the roster when it comes to signing the top players on the planet."

Ferdinand said that money will only get a team so far, as the top players are motivated by success rather than financial rewards.

"It's not about money, it's about success and where will you find it? That is Champions League football and playing in the Premier League."