Florian Wirtz of Liverpool reacts during a matchplaceholder image
Florian Wirtz of Liverpool reacts during a match | Getty Images
Liverpool will face Manchester City at the Etihad this weekend
A win for Arne Slot could be enough to see Liverpool move into second in the Premier League table but they still have both Sunderland and Bournemouth breathing down their necks, as they are level on 18 points each.
The Reds have turned a corner since their dismal run of defeats recently. Wins over Aston Villa and Real Madrid have boosted morale but whether they can keep their positive streak ticking against Man City remains to be seen.
Pundit and former Blackburn and Celtic forward Chris Sutton has given his predictions ahead of Sunday’s clash.
Chris Sutton doesn’t hold much hope for Liverpool
In his latest Premier League Predictions column, Sutton hasn’t given Liverpool much of a chance to bother City this weekend. In fact, he has ruled both clubs out of this season’s title race.
“Whoever wins this, I feel like both teams are fighting for second place anyway, because I don't see anyone catching Arsenal now,” Sutton said.
“People sometimes get angry when I say things like that but I do think they will win the title from here and I have changed my prediction from before the season started, when I went for Liverpool.
“I don't often do that so early, but I don't think Liverpool can win it any more - we've already seen in the first 10 games how, defensively, they are too vulnerable, and then you look at how good Arsenal are at the back.
“It is a similar story with City. I feel they will need Rodri at his very best to push the Gunners, but his injury problems don't appear to be over.”
Sutton backed a 2-1 win for Man City and expects Erling Haaland to get on the scoresheet.
Ian Wright discusses ‘best result’ for Arsenal
Arsenal are currently enjoying being six points clear of their closest rivals City. Mikel Arteta’s side have dropped points on just two occasions so far this season and have won their last five games.
The Gunners are up against surprise packages Sunderland this weekend, who could also move into second if they win and other results go in their favour.
The Premier League new boys are off to a flying start in their first season back in the top flight, having taken points from the likes of Chelsea, Nottingham Forest and Brentford so far. Sunderland could close the gap on Arsenal to four points if they beat the league leaders at the Stadium of Light on Saturday.
“For Arsenal, the best result will be a draw, but I think Manchester City will beat Liverpool,” he said.
Gary Neville and Jill Scott also agreed on a City win, but Paul Scholes backed Liverpool to get the job done and snatch the win instead.
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