Mueez Ajao
– Jurgen Klopp has likened Liverpool’s rivalry with Manchester City to the competition between tennis legends Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal.
– Liverpool meet City on Sunday in a top-of-the-table Premier League clash that will likely play a key role in deciding the outcome of the title race. A City victory would give them a four-point lead with seven games left while Liverpool would overtake their rivals with a win.
– “The last four years we’ve stepped up a bit closer to City. We’ve pushed each other to incredible points tallies, I never thought it would be possible in this league,” Klopp said. “The consistency both teams have shown over the period is crazy.
Also Read: Man City vs Liverpool match not title decider – Klopp
– “In sport, I think what helps the most is a strong opponent. In the long term, especially.
– “I think Nadal and Federer enjoyed the rivalry they had. That’s how it is in sport. I wouldn’t say I’m thankful City is that good, but it didn’t harm our development.
– “I’m expecting a good game. I know that doesn’t happen often when two top teams face each other. Our history with City shows that very often they have been a pretty interesting watch because both teams really go for it.
– “If we win we are two points ahead, we lose we’re four points behind. If it’s a draw, one point behind – that is it. Does anyone think that’s done and dusted?
– “This is a very important game. If we were 14 or 15 points behind it will still be a good game. We’ve qualified for a good game with the season we’ve played so far.”
– Klopp also heaped praise on City boss Pep Guardiola, saying his opposite number was “the best coach in the world.”
– “We all would agree on that,” Klopp said. “If anybody doubts him, I have no idea how that could happen.”
– Klopp added that he had a fully fit squad at his disposal.
– Liverpool, who have not won any of the last four meetings between the teams, will be looking for a first league victory at the Etihad Stadium since 2015 when they travel to Manchester on Sunday.
