Man City and Liverpool clash to keep Arsenal within reach

LONDON :Clashes between Manchester City and Liverpool have often been regarded as key battles in Premier League title races in recent seasons but Sunday's encounter may merely point to which of the two clubs is best equipped to try to chase Arsenal.

By the time the weekend's big game kicks off at the Etihad Stadium (1630 GMT) Arsenal, who visit surprise package Sunderland on Saturday, could be 10 points clear of champions Liverpool and nine ahead of Pep Guardiola's City.

That likely scenario would increase the pressure on City and Liverpool, who head into the last round of fixtures before another international stoppage second and third respectively.

While it is still early in the season, a beefed-up Arsenal squad looks well-equipped to protect top spot, having conceded only three goals in 10 league games and none in the last four.

City manager Guardiola and his Liverpool counterpart Arne Slot will be only too aware of the relentless efficiency Arsenal have displayed so far this season and will know that defeat on Sunday would leave them with a mountain to climb.

At least there are signs that both clubs are finding form. City have lost only once in their last 13 games in all competitions and on Wednesday pummelled Borussia Dortmund 4-1 in the Champions League with Erling Haaland scoring his 18th club goal this season and a rejuvenated Phil Foden bagging a brace.

Liverpool have also emerged from a run of six defeats in seven matches in all competitions to beat Aston Villa and Real Madrid in their last two games.

GUARDIOLA DESPERATE TO PLAY LIVERPOOL

City lost home and away to Liverpool last season as they were dethroned as champions and Guardiola admitted he was surprised at their stumbles this season.

"Of course, but sometimes