Oscar Bobb was the hero for Manchester City as they came from behind to beat Newcastle United 3-2. Pep Guardiola's side were also buoyed by the return of Kevin De Bruyne as the Belgian inspired the comeback at St James' Park with a goal and an assist.
The triumph sees City jump into second, just two points behind Liverpool with the Reds out of action this weekend for the winter break.
The Anfield club face a tricky return to English top-flight action as they travel to AFC Bournemouth. The Cherries inflicted misery on Jurgen Klopp's men the last time they visited the South Coast and after a dismal start, Andoni Iraola has enjoyed an upturn in fortunes - picking up 22 points from their last 10 matches, matching Liverpool's return, winning seven. PLAYER RATINGS: Kevin De Bruyne and Oscar Bobb star READ MORE: Man City reaction to Kevin De Bruyne goal could be priceless in Premier League title race Aston Villa, who take on Everton on Sunday can move up to second if they win at Goodison Park, while Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur sit fourth and fifth respectively, a point separating the two.
With the Premier League title race hotting up, here are Man City's next six fixtures compared to their rivals. Position: 2nd, 43 points, +25 GD Next six: Burnley (H) - Wednesday, January 31 Brentford (A) - Monday, February 5 Everton (H) - Saturday, February 10 Chelsea (H) - Saturday, February 17 Brentford (H) - Tuesday, February 20 *Manchester United (H), Saturday, March 2. *Subject to change. Position: 1st, 45 points, +25GD Next six: Bournemouth (A) - Sunday, January 21 Chelsea (H) - Wednesday, January 31 Arsenal (A) - Sunday, February 4 Burnley (H) - Saturday, February 10 Brentford (A) - Saturday, February 17 Luton (H) -