The midfielder believes David Moyes’ men face a tough task in keeping their crown and says Liverpool are a big threat this season because of Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge

By Dennis Mabuka

Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure believes “struggling” Manchester United will find it difficult to defend their Premier League title this season.

David Moyes’ side are six points behind league leaders Arsenal, although Manuel Pellegrini’s men are only two points better off than the champions after nine games.

“I must admit that we have a tough battle ahead to reclaim the Premier League crown,” Toure told Goal.

“We must work extra hard as a team to compete with Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United.

“United will find it hard to defend the title since they have a new manager, David Moyes, and are really struggling.”

Toure also feels Liverpool are currently strong contenders for the title due to their cohesive attacking partnership.

“Liverpool are a big threat at the moment because they have a strong squad and their strikers – Luiz Suarez and Daniel Sturridge – are scoring goals at will.”

Following the racist abuse he suffered during City’s last Champions League match against CSKA Moscow, Toure has suggested that black players could boycott 2018 the World Cup which is to be held in Russia.

And the 30-year-old insists he will continue to speak out against racism, adding: “There is no room for racism in modern football.

“Such vices must be condemned at all cost. I will not shy away from voicing my concerns.”