Manchester United's worst-case scenario in run-in as Liverpool clinch top-four spot

Manchester United missed out on the opportunity to tighten their grip on a top-four berth on Thursday evening, losing 1-0 to Brighton in dramatic circumstances at the Amex Stadium.

As a result of that defeat, Liverpool, who are currently fifth and one place behind United in the standings, could cut the gap on Erik ten Hag's side to a solitary point this weekend. They face Brentford at Anfield on Saturday evening and will be going in search of a sixth successive Premier League win.

READ MORE: Anthony Martial is proving Jose Mourinho right at United

If Liverpool do win, the league table will make for nervy reading for United fans, but the Reds will still have two games in hand heading to West Ham on Sunday and remain firm favourites to secure Champions League qualification.

We've had a look at a possible nightmare scenario, though, which would see United miss out on the top four...

May 6/7

Liverpool vs Brentford - LIVERPOOL WIN

West Ham United vs United - WEST HAM WIN

Victory for Liverpool on Saturday would elevate them to within a point of Ten Hag's troops, putting United under stern pressure to win at West Ham just over 24 hours later. Should they achieve that, they would reopen a four-point cushion.

However, in the event of a defeat for United, they would remain just a point ahead of Liverpool, but would still have a game in hand.

4th: United - 63pts

5th: Liverpool - 62pts

--

May 13/15

United vs Wolves - UNITED WIN

Leicester City vs Liverpool - LIVERPOOL WIN

Back on home soil, United will be strong favourites to beat Wolves next Saturday. The Reds have been almost faultless at home this season and have not lost a league match at Old Trafford since the opening day of the season, meaning you would expect them to