Pep Guardiola reaffirms title race verdict after Liverpool close gap on Man City

Pep Guardiola has reaffirmed that the Premier League title race has "never" been a forgone conclusion after Liverpool closed the gap on his Manchester City side to just six points.

The Citizens dramatically lost 3-2 to Tottenham Hotspur in an epic clash on Saturday, only hours after Jurgen Klopp and co came from behind to beat Norwich City at Anfield.

Now, Liverpool could go above City if they were to win their game in hand and come out on top in what could be a title-deciding match between the two teams in April.

"I never said the title race was over," Guardiola stated after Harry Kane 's late winner at the Etihad. "It's normal. In January and February the teams at the bottom won their games because everyone fights for everything. It will be difficult. We know it.

"But it's happened. We lost a game. We will recover with training sessions and prepare for the next game."

The Spaniard added: "We have to fight for every game and every game we are going to win we will be closer.

"I said weeks ago we have to make a lot of points to be champions and this is what we will try to do. I think we performed well – honestly."

Just a few weeks ago amid Liverpool's weaker form, the Citizens looked sure to win their fourth English title in five seasons.

But the champions are now facing a fight to clinch on to top spot, as the Reds push to overtake them in what promises to be an enthralling run-in.

Like plenty of other pundits, Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher previously thought there was no race to be had, but now believes the events of Saturday have set one up.

"I'd still favour Man City with Liverpool still to come to the Etihad and I think Liverpool's fixtures may be tougher. I certainly think for the next four or five days,