The former Blues midfielder now plies his trade in China for Shanghai SIPG after signing from Chelsea for £60m last December.

The 26-year-old won four trophies during his time at Stamford Bridge, and he thinks Antonio Conte’s men should not be written off in the title race.

Oscar told PL Brasil: “I think Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea will fight until the end.

“Of course Manchester City and Manchester United are appearing for the games they are doing, for the goals they are applying, but Chelsea are a very strong team.”

Man City’s impressive 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge means both Manchester clubs are six points ahead of the Blues with just seven games played.

But Oscar, who represented Brazil 47 times, thinks his former club have the quality to haul themselves back into contention.

“Conte sets up a team to play as a team, which is very good,” he added.

“It’s very difficult to score goals against Conte’s teams, so I think Chelsea will come and fight until the end.

“I think the three teams will fight and will reach the end.”

Chelsea return to Premier League action after the international break with a crunch clash against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

They will be missing Alvaro Morata however, as the striker suffered a grade two hamstring injury in the defeat to City.

Manchester United, meanwhile, are preparing to take on Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday October 14 in their next game.