Liverpool could put one hand on the Premier League today today if they beat Manchester City at the Etihad in a mammoth showdown.
Former Arsenal star Paul Merson has declared that the top-flight title race will be done and dusted if Arne Slot’s men manage to secure three points.
City must bounce back quickly from Champions League heartbreak following a battering in Madrid on Wednesday night, ensuring Pep Guardiola’s side crashed out of Europe before the last 16 stage.
While City are still fighting in the FA Cup, a top four finish in the Premier League is likely to be the best they can hope for.
City, though, can at least dent Liverpool’s title bid at the Etihad today. Slot’s side dropped points away to Aston Villa on Wednesday night and another slip-up this weekend could open the door once again for Arsenal.
Injuries will be a problem, however. John Stones has endured an injury-hit campaign – with his latest return lasting just five games – after he was forced off after less than 10 minutes against Real Madrid in the week.
The England international defender now faces an extended period out with a thigh issue and may require surgery, according to City boss Guardiola.
Stones joins Manuel Akanji on the injury list with the Switzerland international facing 10 weeks on the sidelines as a result of the thigh injury he suffered in the first leg defeat last week.
Erling Haaland was part of the travelling squad in Madrid earlier this week but did not emerge from the bench despite his side’s desperation for goals.
The Norway international came off with a knee issue against Newcastle United last weekend – but City are hopeful he has shaken off the issue for today’s clash.
Kevin De Bruyne was another City superstar who did not emerge from the bench on Wednesday.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are sweating on the fitness of Cody Gakpo. The Netherlands international has missed his side’s last two games after picking up a knock in the Merseyside derby thriller against Everton.
The forward is still to return to training with Arne Slot to make a late call on his availability.
Joe Gomez is sidelined again having undergone hamstring surgery while Conor Bradley looks set to miss out after he picked up a knock in the draw at Villa.
Predicted Man City XI to face Liverpool
Ederson, Lewis, Ake, Dias, Gvardiol, Gonzalez, Kovacic, Foden, De Bruyne, Savinho, Haaland
Predicted Liverpool XI to face Man City
Alisson, Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson, Gravenberch, Mac Allister, Salah, Szoboszlai, Diaz, Jota
Where to watch Man City vs Liverpool? Kick-off time and TV channel
Man City vs Liverpool kicks off at 4:30pm on Sunday 23 February.
Live coverage is available on Sky Sports Premier League and Sky Sports Main Event, with a live stream available on the Sky Go app and NOW TV.
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