Man City will rise to Liverpool FC challenge and disprove ridiculous 'bottler' narrative

Manchester City and Liverpool are currently playing out what could turn out to be one of the closest Premier League title races in history, yet some how what should be a thrilling celebration of football has allowed one of the most ridiculous narratives in the game to rear its head. That nonsense is bottling culture.

When compared to some of the depressing things that are happening in football and the wider world at the minute, this is really a non-issue. However, that doesn't make it any less annoying.

City's goalless draw with Crystal Palace on Monday evening has left their lead at the top of the table more precarious than ever. Victory for Liverpool at Arsenal on Wednesday would reduce the Blues' advantage to a single point, with the Premier League top two set to meet on April 10th for what could be a title-deciding showdown.

READ MORE: Liverpool FC celebrate Man City blank but Pep Guardiola was right to make controversial call

City held a 14-point lead over Jurgen Klopp's side two months ago, giving rise to the narrative that they have 'bottled' the title. That is simply not true.

City's great crime is only winning 20 of the 27 points available to them since the turn of the year. Guardiola's side have won six of those nine matches, drawn two and lost one.

In any other scenario, that wouldn't sound like a terrible return, would it? But considering the high standards set by themselves, and the ridiculous form Liverpool find themselves in, then no, it isn't great.

Should Klopp's side beat Arsenal on Wednesday, then they will have won 25 of the previous 27 points available to them. The 2019/20 champions have won their past eight league fixtures on the bounce by an aggregate score of 21-2 - an incredible run of results.