The race for the title will be between reigning champions Manchester United and Chelsea, said the Chelsea midfielder.

Currently, only goal difference separates Liverpool from Chelsea at the top of the table - the pair are on 33 points.

But the Germany midfielder feels Liverpool are more suited to the Champions League because their squad lack the depth to compete for the entire season.

Liverpool have won the Champions League once and reached another final in four seasons under Rafael Benitez.

They have made their best start to the league and have been in the top two all season. So Ballack's views will not go down well at Anfield.

They became the first side to win a league match at Stamford Bridge in 41/2 years last month when they edged out Chelsea 1-0.

'It's always the big four that everyone speaks about, but it's still about Chelsea and Man U,' said Ballack.

'Arsenal are already behind, which makes it very difficult for them. Liverpool are very good at this moment, but they are always a club for the Champions League, partly because they can put all their focus on one or two matches.

'But, when you look at results and squads over the past couple of seasons, I think us and Man U are just a little bit stronger.'

Ballack's words got immediate backing from Jimmy Bullard, who predicted that Chelsea will win the league comfortably after playing in Fulham's 0-0 draw with Liverpool on Saturday.

Chelsea, held at home by Newcastle, could not take advantage, but they did not concede any ground because United could only draw 0-0 with Aston Villa.

'We took it to Liverpool and gave it a right bash, but who do I think will win the league?' Bullard said.

'Chelsea, and they'll do it comfortably. Liverpool have outstanding individuals. But, sometimes, it's not about individual players. It's about the team.'

THE TIMES, LONDON