Roy Keane has claimed the Premier League title race would be over for Manchester City if they suffer defeat to Liverpool next weekend.
Arne Slot's side opened an eight-point lead over last season's champions at the top of the table as the two heavyweights of English football faced off at Anfield on Sunday, December 1, live on Sky Sports.
City suffered their fifth straight defeat on Saturday when they were beaten 4-0 at home by Tottenham – the longest losing streak of Pep Guardiola's coaching career – and will now play the league leaders in a desperate bid to keep their title hopes alive keep.
“Eight points ahead. I bet they can't believe it,” Keane said after Liverpool's 3-2 win over Southampton on Super Sunday.
“Liverpool did excellently and have every chance to win this title. If they are at their best, with the fans behind them, and beat City, what a statement that would be.”
'It would be over for them [City] next week if they lose to Liverpool.
“It's a big test to deal with that expectation. Can City recover next week?”
Redknapp: Dream start for Slot
Jamie Redknapp reiterated the positivity surrounding Liverpool's start under Slot as they continue to benefit from both City and Arsenal's problems.
“It was a dream start for them,” Redknapp told Sky Sports. “Man City are struggling and Arsenal have injuries, it's perfect for them now.
“Who knows, Liverpool might get injured and have to suffer for a while. So far for Arne Slot, that's where you want to be. Great position for Christmas. Keep everyone fit and keep going.”
“It has been a blockbuster in the Premier League in recent years, especially at Anfield. Often City have not achieved the desired result. This will be a change as Liverpool will be favourites, it brings expectation and more pressure.” Maybe they should be more patient.”
Salah: We want to increase the lead
Liverpool star Mohamed Salah enjoyed the win over Saints as he scored twice, but he is well aware of the threat City still pose ahead of their showdown next weekend.
“Hopefully we keep going in that direction. We have a game against them, so hopefully we win it and go ahead with an 11-point lead,” Salah said.
“Man City is Man City. They've had a bad time now, but they have a great coach and great players. Hopefully we can beat them.”
Comments