Phil Jones has insisted that Manchester United now have what it takes to challenge for the Premier League title following a "disappointing" campaign last time out.
Red Devils boss Jose Mourinho has spent the summer strengthening his playing squad, adding Victor Lindelof and Romelu Lukaku so far after falling well short of the required standard in 2016-17.
United finished 24 points adrift of champions Chelsea in the top flight, though the blow of ending the term in a lowly sixth place was softened by success in the EFL Cup and Europa League.
Jones is convinced that his side can now compete for major honours for the first time since legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson bowed out four years ago, however, as they are slowly getting their winning spirit back.
"I think, slowly but surely, we're getting that back," he is quoted as saying by The Mirror. "It's taken time, but I think we're getting there now. Hopefully this season, every time another team steps out at Old Trafford, they know they're in for a tough time.
"Last season was disappointing in the league, but we won the Europa League so that wasn't too bad. This year we definitely have to start challenging for the title, there's no question about it, and I think we can definitely do it with this squad.
"We're definitely a lot stronger this year. We've recruited well, big Rom up front is a threat, a real handful. Victor has come in and he looks like he's been here for five years now. So we're positive and looking forward to it."
United have won both of their pre-season friendly matches so far, seeing off Los Angeles Galaxy and Real Salt Lake, but face their toughest test yet when taking on Manchester City in the early hours of Friday morning.
Daniel Lewis
