Manchester United's next six Premier League fixtures compared to Tottenham, Newcastle and rivals

Manchester United got back to winning ways in the Premier League on Wednesday evening, beating Chelsea 2-1 at Old Trafford.

Scott McTominay netted a brace, finding the net either side of a Cole Palmer leveller, to secure a fully merited three points for the Reds, who climbed up to sixth as a result. United were much-improved after Saturday's no-show against Newcastle United and had the chances to win much more convincingly.

Nevertheless, their reaction to the weekend's below par showing at St James' Park would have no doubt pleased manager Erik ten Hag. Despite their troubles this season, United, remarkably, are now just three points behind fourth-placed Manchester City, who were beaten 1-0 by Aston Villa on Wednesday evening.

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The challenge for United now is to build on their triumph over Mauricio Pochettino's side when Bournemouth visit Old Trafford on Saturday. Furthermore, at the time of writing, just five seven points now stand between Villa in third and Brighton & Hove Albion in eighth, meaning the fight for European football this season is shaping up to be a gripping battle.

With that said, MEN Sport has had a look at United's next six league fixtures and compared them with those of their direct rivals.

Verdict: Saturday's meeting with Bournemouth at Old Trafford, despite the Cherries' recent upturn in form, has to result in three points for United ahead of two, albeit for different reasons, stern away fixtures. The clash with Aston Villa on Boxing Day also promises to be another difficult assignment.

The clashes with Bournemouth and Forest,