Bryan Robson: Manchester United will not win the treble but will beat City in the FA Cup

Bryan Robson believes Manchester United will not win the treble – but insists his former club will put Manchester City in their place in the FA Cup semi-final.

United are in a position to repeat their historic treble of 1999 as they sit top of the Premier League and travel to Chelsea next Wednesday for the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final tie.

Former Red Devils captain Robson believes United will beat City at Wembley on April 16 and go on the win the FA Cup, but reckons talk of winning all three competitions is unrealistic.

“I'm sure United would be quite happy to win one or two competitions, it's probably too much to expect them to win all three,” Robson told Goal.com UK at Soccerex in Manchester.

“They are in a great position but something like a treble is very rare and you need everything to fall into place.

“If you offered the manager the double right now, I'm sure he would take it. That is very possible if you look at where they are in the competitions.

“In the Champions League especially, it can come down to that bit of luck. The Chelsea tie is too close to call, it will be very tough.

“In the FA Cup, City have improved and will be up for it - but United have the big-game experience and they have the edge.

“United know how to do it on the big stage and in a Wembley semi-final I think they are big favourites.

“It will be a massive game for the city of Manchester, it's very exciting for the supporters and it makes me wish I wish still playing.”

Robson is due to undergo a five-week radiotherapy course in Thailand next month as he continues his fight against throat cancer after having a tumour removed earlier this month.

“I am confident of making a full recovery.” added the 54-year-old, who is manager of the Thailand national team. “I will go back to Thailand, stay positive and carry on my life as normal. 

“The doctors have treated me well, I've had the tumour taken out and everyone is very positive. Hopefully I will be OK in a couple of months.”

The former England captain, who won 90 caps for his country, also expressed his appreciation for the messages of support he received after his illness was reported.

He added: “I've had a fantastic response from people all over the country and that helps me remain positive – you have to when things like happen.”