Arne Slot refuses to believe Premier League title is in Liverpool’s hands

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot refused to consider the prospect that the Premier League title was theirs to lose after a 2-0 victory over Manchester City sent his side 11 points clear at the top.

First-half goals from Mohamed Salah, his 30th of the season, and Dominik Szoboszlai were followed by a disciplined defensive performance after the break to secure a first league victory at the Etihad Stadium since November 2015.

Although second-placed Arsenal have a match in hand, Slot’s team would have to lose three times – they have suffered one league defeat all season – in their last 11 matches to even offer the chance of being overtaken, and then only if Mikel Arteta’s side were able to win every game.

But Slot is refusing to look beyond Wednesday’s visit of Newcastle despite joyous fans singing about winning the league at the final whistle.

“The fans can sing whatever they want, but we know as a team how hard we have to work for every single win,” he said.

“It is only three days ago someone asked me if we had a dip on Wednesday (in a 2-2 draw with Aston Villa). I don’t believe that as well as I’m calm now about this win.

“You can ask every single question you want, but it is so hard to judge the league table before every single game is played.

“In my opinion, Villa and City away (Liverpool’s last two matches) are two very difficult games so you can drop points there.

“In every other league having a lead like this would be very comfortable – except for this one because this league every single game gives you a lot of challenges.”

Slot did admit, however, the long-awaited league win at City – something predecessor Jurgen Klopp never managed against Pep Guardiola – felt important.

“If you play away at the Etihad and win it is