Nani: Race between United and Chelsea

The Portugal star has ruled Arsenal and Manchester City out of the running. United are top at Christmas despite not playing their best football this season.

Nani, 24, said: "I no longer see anybody winning the Premier League outside of Manchester United or Chelsea. Hopefully it will be United."

The winger has enjoyed a productive year at Old Trafford, finally shining in the absence of compatriot Cristiano Ronaldo.

All the attention

He said: "It is easier for me to stand out now that Cristiano Ronaldo has left. He is a fantastic player who got all the attention and deservedly so. I loved playing alongside him and we got on well."

"But it is also true that when he left it freed up space for other players to shine. I saw an opportunity to demonstrate my qualities and to show the people here what I can do," he added.

"I know I can become a better player and my aim now is to get on the list of nominees for next year's Ballon d'Or — the world player of the year prize."