Premier League talking points: Which Liverpool will turn up at Manchester City?

The Premier League returns from the international break this weekend with plenty still to play for as the season enters its final phase. The title race and top-four battle remain fiercely contested, while the fight for survival involves almost half of the league.

Here are the big talking points as the Premier League gets back underway.

When Liverpool destroyed Manchester United 7-0 at the start of the month, it had all the hallmarks of a season finally turning a corner. The Reds were devastating in attack, particularly in the second half, pressed superbly, and were organised at the back – a classic Jurgen Klopp team display.

Many expected Liverpool to use that performance as a springboard to end the season strongly, string together a run of wins, and steal a place in the top four. Instead, what followed was a tepid display in a 1-0 defeat at relegation-threatened Bournemouth.

Next up for the consistently inconsistent Reds is a daunting trip to Etihad Stadium to take on champions Manchester City. All signs should point to a routine City win but with this Liverpool side, who won the reverse match at Anfield, it's anyone's guess.

Even if Saturday's clash isn't between title rivals – as it so often has been in recent years – this fixture usually delivers the fireworks.

Manchester City v Liverpool, Saturday, kick-off 3.30pm (UAE time)

Jurgen Klopp, left, takes Liverpool to face Pep Guardiola and Manchester City at the Etihad. AFP

After losing to a woefully out-of-form Everton – albeit under Sean Dyche's new management – getting beaten by title rivals City, and being held to a draw at home by Brentford in three straight games in February, there was a sense that the wheels on Arsenal's impressive season were starting to