A supercomputer has predicted that Manchester United will stutter to another mid-table finish in the Premier League after a slow start to the season.
United's 2-1 win over Chelsea on Saturday was only their second victory this campaign having previously defeated Burnley. Goals from Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro set them on their way after Robert Sanchez was sent off for a foul on Bryan Mbeumo.
Five games into the new season and United are sitting 11th in the Premier League table. However, with Brentford and Sunderland coming up before the October international break, the Reds could feasibly climb into the top five in a matter of two games.
After their worst season in 51 years, which saw them finish 15th, United are being tipped for another challenging year in the Premier League.
The latest Opta supercomputer prediction has Ruben Amorim's men finishing 12th on an expected 50 points. That means they currently have a 5.9 per cent chance of qualifying for the Champions League.
The supercomputer says United have a 6.29 per cent chance of a shock relegation to the Championship. The chance of a finish in the Europa League spots has been set at 4.18 per cent.
Despite sitting in mid-table and showing little sign of progression, Amorim will be hoping to defy the supercomputer this season. Following last season's disaster of finishing in the bottom half of the table and losing the Europa League final to Tottenham, United are desperate for an improved season.
Speaking after the eventful win over Chelsea, Amorim was asked how vital the three points could end up being. "It is really important because I understand the situation around this club." he said.
"We cannot forget that we suffer a lot when we are on top. We can lose against Grimsby, we can beat any team. I'm just thinking about the next one. It is really good to win. We need the urgency to win again, that is really important for us."