Chelsea vs Manchester United: Thibaut Courtois admits Blues need a win to keep title defence alive
Antonio Conte's side could already be 12 points behind leaders Manchester City by the time they host rivals
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THIBAUT COURTOIS admits Chelsea's clash with Manchester United is a "must-win" after a stuttering start.
If Manchester City beat Arsenal in Sunday's early game, the Blues will be 12 points behind their title rivals by kick-off.
And the Belgian stopper has issued a rallying cry to his team-mates as they prepare to host former boss Jose Mourinho.
Courtois, 25, said: "If we want to remain near the top of the Premier League then it is a must win game for us.
"I think City are nine points ahead, United is at four. Tottenham is just one in front but this game is a must win if you want to remain near the top and near the other teams.
"We will try to get three points and give our lives for it on Sunday."
Courtois shipped three goals in a Champions league defeat to Roma last night.
But he insists having to deal with European football is no excuse for his side's struggles in their title defence.
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He added: "We try to do our best and we want to be in the Champions League.
"A few years ago, we won the league while playing in the Champions League.
"Obviously it is a change so it is harder. We are tired quicker than last year but I don’t think it affects us.
"I think we just need to keep training well and be ready for Sunday. I think after the Palace game and I think Roma after, we showed some good character against Watford and Bournemouth.
"We could have won 4-0 vs Bournemouth so I think we will have to meet tomorrow, see the images and see what we could have done better and then give 150 per cent of ourselves on Sunday."