<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-draw-everton-in-fa-cup-third-round-265919">Liverpool</a>'s bandwagon rolled on as they crushed Merseyside rivals Everton 5-2 at Anfield but Leicester City's pursuit continued with a seventh successive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-jesus-double-gives-manchester-city-much-needed-win-at-burnley-266167">Premier League</a> victory to stay eight points behind on Wednesday.

Even with strikers Mo Salah and Roberto Firmino warming the bench, Juergen Klopp's side had far too much firepower with Divock Origi scoring twice as Liverpool set a new club record of 32 league games undefeated.

While a first title for 30 years is beckoning Liverpool, pressure is piling up on Everton boss Marco Silva as his side dropped into the relegation zone, below Southampton who beat fellow strugglers Norwich City 2-1.

Jose Mourinho's return to Old Trafford was not a happy one as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/im-a-better-coach-for-united-stint-jose-mourinho-266138">Manchester United</a> striker Marcus Rashford's double earned his side a 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

Leicester beat bottom club Watford 2-0 as they equalled a club record winning streak dating back to 1963, Jamie Vardy and James Maddison scoring after the break to lift Brendan Rodgers's side three points above champions Manchester City.

"Seven wins on the spin in the Premier League is a great achievement, we have a winning mentality," Rodgers said. "We fight and work and see where it takes us."

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard got the better of former team mate John Terry, assistant manager at Aston Villa, as his side shrugged off back-to-back league defeats with a 2-1 victory to consolidate fourth spot.

Wolverhampton Wanderers are now unbeaten in 10 league games,&nbsp;their best run in the top flight for 40 years,&nbsp;as they cruised to a 2-0 victory over West Ham United.

Wolves jumped to fifth spot, six behind Chelsea.

With Adam Lallana also given a start as Klopp rotated his squad at the start of a hectic month, Liverpool underlined their depth as they blew Everton away in the highest-scoring Mersey derby since 1933.

A mesmerising attacking display saw them net four goals before halftime with Origi and Xherdan Shaqiri scoring to make the most of rare starts. Sadio Mane was also on target although Everton played their part with Michael Keane and Richarlison keeping them in the contest.

A calmer second half brought only a late goal for Georginio Wijnaldum as Liverpool moved to 43 points from 15 games, eight ahead of Leicester and 11 clear of champions Manchester City.

"The players coming in were fantastic, it's good to see, we will need everyone in this long season," Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk said.

"We have to use everyone and they all stepped up."

Mourinho, sacked a year ago by Manchester United, returned to the north west in good heart after his first three games for Tottenham all brought victories while his United successor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/more-frustration-for-solskjaer-as-manchester-united-held-by-villa-265635">Ole Gunnar Solskjaer</a> was under pressure after the Reds' worst start to a season since 1988.

United produced the kind of vibrant display that has been a rarity this season and Rashford was superb. He opened the scoring early and tucked away a penalty in the second half after Dele Alli had equalised for Tottenham.

It was a dominant display by United who moved above Tottenham into sixth spot with 21 points from 15 games.

"It was the best performance Marcus Rashford has had under me," Solskjaer said of the young England striker. "It's like he was back on the playground."

Mourinho, given a friendly welcome, said his side had started too slowly.

"We need to win more duels, we need to start the game with more intensity," the Portuguese said. "We need to make the opponent feel what United made us feel."

Tammy Abraham returned for Chelsea after injury and headed the opening goal against Villa. Trezeguet bundled in a Villa equaliser but Mason Mount's thumping volley sealed victory.

Liverpool's bandwagon rolled on as they crushed Merseyside rivals Everton 5-2 at Anfield but Leicester City's pursuit continued with a seventh successive Premier League victory to stay eight points behind on Wednesday.

Liverpool's bandwagon rolled on as they crushed Merseyside rivals Everton 5-2 at Anfield but Leicester City's pursuit continued with a seventh successive Premier League victory to stay eight points behind on Wednesday. Even with strikers Mo Salah and Roberto Firmino warming the bench, Juergen Klopp's side had far too much firepower with Divock Origi scoring twice as Liverpool set a new club record of 32 league games undefeated. While a first title for 30 years is beckoning Liverpool, pressure is piling up on Everton boss Marco Silva as his side dropped into the relegation zone, below Southampton who beat fellow strugglers Norwich City 2-1. Jose Mourinho's return to Old Trafford was not a happy one as Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford's double earned his side a 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. Leicester beat bottom club Watford 2-0 as they equalled a club record winning streak dating back to 1963, Jamie Vardy and James Maddison scoring after the break to lift Brendan Rodgers's side three points above champions Manchester City. "Seven wins on the spin in the Premier League is a great achievement, we have a winning mentality," Rodgers said. "We fight and work and see where it takes us." Chelsea manager Frank Lampard got the better of former team mate John Terry, assistant manager at Aston Villa, as his side shrugged off back-to-back league defeats with a 2-1 victory to consolidate fourth spot. Wolverhampton Wanderers are now unbeaten in 10 league games, their best run in the top flight for 40 years, as they cruised to a 2-0 victory over West Ham United. Wolves jumped to fifth spot, six behind Chelsea. With Adam Lallana also given a start as Klopp rotated his squad at the start of a hectic month, Liverpool underlined their depth as they blew Everton away in the highest-scoring Mersey derby since 1933. A mesmerising attacking display saw them net four goals before halftime with Origi and Xherdan Shaqiri scoring to make the most of rare starts. Sadio Mane was also on target although Everton played their part with Michael Keane and Richarlison keeping them in the contest. A calmer second half brought only a late goal for Georginio Wijnaldum as Liverpool moved to 43 points from 15 games, eight ahead of Leicester and 11 clear of champions Manchester City. "The players coming in were fantastic, it's good to see, we will need everyone in this long season," Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk said. "We have to use everyone and they all stepped up." Mourinho, sacked a year ago by Manchester United, returned to the north west in good heart after his first three games for Tottenham all brought victories while his United successor Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was under pressure after the Reds' worst start to a season since 1988. United produced the kind of vibrant display that has been a rarity this season and Rashford was superb. He opened the scoring early and tucked away a penalty in the second half after Dele Alli had equalised for Tottenham. It was a dominant display by United who moved above Tottenham into sixth spot with 21 points from 15 games. "It was the best performance Marcus Rashford has had under me," Solskjaer said of the young England striker. "It's like he was back on the playground." Mourinho, given a friendly welcome, said his side had started too slowly. "We need to win more duels, we need to start the game with more intensity," the Portuguese said. "We need to make the opponent feel what United made us feel." Tammy Abraham returned for Chelsea after injury and headed the opening goal against Villa. Trezeguet bundled in a Villa equaliser but Mason Mount's thumping volley sealed victory.

Premier League: Liverpool enjoy derby demolition as it sets new club record, Leicester still chasing

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-guardiola-is-the-best-manager-in-the-world-juergen-klopp-260679">Pep Guardiola</a> says he will not be splashing out in January to revive Manchester City's flagging <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-extend-lead-at-top-as-manchester-city-chelsea-falter-265516">Premier League</a> title fortunes despite the yawning gap to leaders Liverpool.

The champions, in third place and trailing Jurgen Klopp's men by 11 points after 14 matches, visit Burnley on Tuesday.

City have gone seven games without a clean sheet, which Guardiola said was not "good enough" and the club have been linked with Leicester City defender Caglar Soyuncu.

But he played down the idea of buying a centre-back when the transfer window re-opens next month.

Instead he will keep his faith in Fernandinho and await the return of Aymeric Laporte after a lengthy absence with a knee injury.

Asked if City's transfer strategy had changed, Guardiola said: "No. I don't want any players in January.

"If we cannot do it in summer, we cannot do in January. When they come for an incredible opportunity in January for the next four, five, six years, maybe we could think about it, but that is not possible.

"Normally the players we could think it would be interesting to add something for our squad, they are not going to sell."

Since losing Laporte in August, and following the exit of captain Vincent Kompany, Guardiola has deployed Fernandinho, usually a holding midfielder, in defence.

And he will turn to the Brazilian again at Turf Moor despite the direct approach of the hosts and aerial and physical threat of Burnley forward pair Ashley Barnes and Chris Wood.

"Fernandinho is not the reason why we win or lose. When we beat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-thwarted-by-valencia-in-champions-league-thriller-264990">Chelsea</a>, everyone said how fantastic Fernandinho was," said Guardiola.

"When we don't win it's because of Fernandinho. It will be my decision. I like him in that position because of the build-up for the fast, for the long balls, many things."

City will be without the suspended Ilkay Gundogan in midfield and striker Sergio Aguero, the matchwinner at Burnley last season, with a thigh injury that will also rule him out of Saturday's Manchester derby.

City have won just one of their past five games in all competitions but England defender John Stones believes leaders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-and-napoli-left-with-work-to-do-after-anfield-draw-264987">Liverpool</a> will now face added pressure to stay at the top.

"It's very difficult to be out in front and you can sometimes be complacent and not do things you should do. That's when you can slip up," he said.

"We put a healthy pressure on our shoulders to say we can achieve this, and we can claw back points and close the gap. We're still the champions and we should have that healthy arrogance about it."

Pep Guardiola says he will not be splashing out in January to revive Manchester City's flagging Premier League title fortunes despite the yawning gap to leaders Liverpool.

Pep Guardiola says he will not be splashing out in January to revive Manchester City's flagging Premier League title fortunes despite the yawning gap to leaders Liverpool. The champions, in third place and trailing Jurgen Klopp's men by 11 points after 14 matches, visit Burnley on Tuesday. City have gone seven games without a clean sheet, which Guardiola said was not "good enough" and the club have been linked with Leicester City defender Caglar Soyuncu. But he played down the idea of buying a centre-back when the transfer window re-opens next month. Instead he will keep his faith in Fernandinho and await the return of Aymeric Laporte after a lengthy absence with a knee injury. Asked if City's transfer strategy had changed, Guardiola said: "No. I don't want any players in January. "If we cannot do it in summer, we cannot do in January. When they come for an incredible opportunity in January for the next four, five, six years, maybe we could think about it, but that is not possible. "Normally the players we could think it would be interesting to add something for our squad, they are not going to sell." Since losing Laporte in August, and following the exit of captain Vincent Kompany, Guardiola has deployed Fernandinho, usually a holding midfielder, in defence. And he will turn to the Brazilian again at Turf Moor despite the direct approach of the hosts and aerial and physical threat of Burnley forward pair Ashley Barnes and Chris Wood. "Fernandinho is not the reason why we win or lose. When we beat Chelsea, everyone said how fantastic Fernandinho was," said Guardiola. "When we don't win it's because of Fernandinho. It will be my decision. I like him in that position because of the build-up for the fast, for the long balls, many things." City will be without the suspended Ilkay Gundogan in midfield and striker Sergio Aguero, the matchwinner at Burnley last season, with a thigh injury that will also rule him out of Saturday's Manchester derby. City have won just one of their past five games in all competitions but England defender John Stones believes leaders Liverpool will now face added pressure to stay at the top. "It's very difficult to be out in front and you can sometimes be complacent and not do things you should do. That's when you can slip up," he said. "We put a healthy pressure on our shoulders to say we can achieve this, and we can claw back points and close the gap. We're still the champions and we should have that healthy arrogance about it."

Guardiola rules out Manchester City January spree

Liverpool and Napoli drew 1-1 in a cagey encounter at Anfield on Wednesday, leaving both sides with work to do to reach the last 16 in their final <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/messi-scores-in-700th-match-as-barcelona-ease-into-knockout-stages-264968">Champions League</a> group matches.

A Dejan Lovren header in the 65th minute cancelled out Dries Mertens' first-half opener for Napoli, who will head home the happier after another disciplined performance in which they defended deep but posed questions on the counter-attack.

European champions <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-mane-the-main-man-as-liverpool-close-on-champions-league-knockouts-264551">Liverpool lead Group E</a> on 10 points with Napoli a point behind and Salzburg on seven. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-jurgen-klopp-confident-of-mohamed-salah-fitness-ahead-of-clash-against-napoli-264732">Juergen Klopp</a>'s side are away to Salzburg in their final game while Napoli host bottom club Genk.

Carlo Ancelotti's Napoli will now expect to secure their place in the knockout stage with a win over a Genk side with a solitary point who were beaten 4-1 at home by Salzburg on Wednesday.

Liverpool though will need at least a point in Austria on December&nbsp;10 to avoid elimination and given their fixture congestion next month,&nbsp;in which they will feature in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-no-pressure-to-land-club-world-cup-crown-says-liverpools-klopp-261550">Club World Cup in Qatar</a>,&nbsp;this was a frustrating result.

"In [the Napoli] dressing room they feel like they are already through and maybe they are," said Klopp.

"Everybody here thinks, 'Oh my god, it will be tough' and it will be tough, that much is clear."

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-united-denied-comeback-win-by-late-mcburnie-equaliser-264347">Premier League</a> leaders, who could have wrapped up top spot with a game to spare, had to come from behind to get their point and never truly settled into the kind of rhythm for which they have become known.

The night began badly with Liverpool's Brazilian holding midfielder Fabinho limping off in the 19th minute with what appeared to be an ankle injury.

"It's early and we all hope it's not too serious but it's pretty painful and in an area you don't want to have pain, around the ankle," said Klopp.

Matters got worse for Klopp when Belgian Mertens put Napoli ahead in the 21st minute with a sweet strike from a tight angle after running on to a through-ball from Giovanni Di Lorenzo.

Liverpool's defence was opened up too easily down their left and the Anfield crowd's agitation increased as two separate VAR reviews were needed before the goal was confirmed.

Klopp was certainly losing his cool and, on the stroke of halftime, he was booked for protesting, shortly after Liverpool had appealed in vain for a penalty after Sadio Mane went down in the box.

The nearest Liverpool came to a breakthrough in the opening 45 minutes was in the final moments of the half when James Milner jinked into the box and blasted at the near post but Napoli keeper Alex Meret did well to parry.

There was more intensity about Liverpool after the break and they went close to levelling when Roberto Firmino hooked the ball goalwards but Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly did well to clear off the line.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-champions-league-jurgen-klopp-confident-of-mohamed-salah-fitness-ahead-of-clash-against-napoli-264732">Mohamed Salah</a> shot straight at Napoli keeper Alex Meret after good work from Andy Robertson and then Firmino headed wide from a promising position.

The equaliser finally came when Lovren headed home from a James Milner corner in the 65th minute and while there was plenty of pressure from the home side in the latter stages they were frustrated by Ancelotti's well-marshalled defence.

Napoli looked much better than their seventh place in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/serie-a-cristiano-ronaldo-hits-late-juventus-winner-as-napoli-rage-at-potato-peeling-referees-258933">Serie A </a>suggests and showed no sign of the internal problems that have beset them in recent weeks.

"I saw a lot of commitment and personality," said Ancelotti.

"I was sure we would play well against a fantastic team. Of course, I knew we would suffer at times but I also knew we could cause them problems too with the way we play.

"Maybe it was not such an aesthetically pleasing match but we put in a strong performance."

Liverpool and Napoli drew 1-1 in a cagey encounter at Anfield on Wednesday, leaving both sides with work to do to reach the last 16 in their final Champions League group matches.

Liverpool and Napoli drew 1-1 in a cagey encounter at Anfield on Wednesday, leaving both sides with work to do to reach the last 16 in their final Champions League group matches. A Dejan Lovren header in the 65th minute cancelled out Dries Mertens' first-half opener for Napoli, who will head home the happier after another disciplined performance in which they defended deep but posed questions on the counter-attack. European champions Liverpool lead Group E on 10 points with Napoli a point behind and Salzburg on seven. Juergen Klopp's side are away to Salzburg in their final game while Napoli host bottom club Genk. Carlo Ancelotti's Napoli will now expect to secure their place in the knockout stage with a win over a Genk side with a solitary point who were beaten 4-1 at home by Salzburg on Wednesday. Liverpool though will need at least a point in Austria on December 10 to avoid elimination and given their fixture congestion next month, in which they will feature in the Club World Cup in Qatar, this was a frustrating result. "In [the Napoli] dressing room they feel like they are already through and maybe they are," said Klopp. "Everybody here thinks, 'Oh my god, it will be tough' and it will be tough, that much is clear." The Premier League leaders, who could have wrapped up top spot with a game to spare, had to come from behind to get their point and never truly settled into the kind of rhythm for which they have become known. The night began badly with Liverpool's Brazilian holding midfielder Fabinho limping off in the 19th minute with what appeared to be an ankle injury. "It's early and we all hope it's not too serious but it's pretty painful and in an area you don't want to have pain, around the ankle," said Klopp. Matters got worse for Klopp when Belgian Mertens put Napoli ahead in the 21st minute with a sweet strike from a tight angle after running on to a through-ball from Giovanni Di Lorenzo. Liverpool's defence was opened up too easily down their left and the Anfield crowd's agitation increased as two separate VAR reviews were needed before the goal was confirmed. Klopp was certainly losing his cool and, on the stroke of halftime, he was booked for protesting, shortly after Liverpool had appealed in vain for a penalty after Sadio Mane went down in the box. The nearest Liverpool came to a breakthrough in the opening 45 minutes was in the final moments of the half when James Milner jinked into the box and blasted at the near post but Napoli keeper Alex Meret did well to parry. There was more intensity about Liverpool after the break and they went close to levelling when Roberto Firmino hooked the ball goalwards but Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly did well to clear off the line. Mohamed Salah shot straight at Napoli keeper Alex Meret after good work from Andy Robertson and then Firmino headed wide from a promising position. The equaliser finally came when Lovren headed home from a James Milner corner in the 65th minute and while there was plenty of pressure from the home side in the latter stages they were frustrated by Ancelotti's well-marshalled defence. Napoli looked much better than their seventh place in Serie A suggests and showed no sign of the internal problems that have beset them in recent weeks. "I saw a lot of commitment and personality," said Ancelotti. "I was sure we would play well against a fantastic team. Of course, I knew we would suffer at times but I also knew we could cause them problems too with the way we play. "Maybe it was not such an aesthetically pleasing match but we put in a strong performance."

Liverpool on thin ice after draw against Napoli in Champions League

Sadio Mane has, in the words of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-masterclass-leaves-manchester-city-in-tatters-261238">Liverpool</a> teammate Andy Robertson, "taken his game to another level", stepping out of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohamed-salah-brushes-off-rumours-related-to-rift-with-sadio-mane-249578">Mohamed Salah</a>'s shadow to become arguably the main man at Anfield.

The Senegal international shares star billing with Salah and Roberto Firmino as part of the European champions' electrifying and fluid front three.

But this year Mane is leading Liverpool's charge,&nbsp;his goal at Selhurst Park at the weekend was his 12th of the campaign and his 29th for the club in the calendar year.

Mane frightens defences with his pace, direct running and skill and his goal return has eased the burden on the shoulders of Salah.

Liverpool defender Robertson praised Mane after his goal in the 2-1 victory against Crystal Palace, which kept Liverpool eight points clear of second-placed Leicester in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-united-denied-comeback-win-by-late-mcburnie-equaliser-264347">Premier League</a>.

On Wednesday he will train his sights on Napoli in the Champions League, with a win guaranteeing Liverpool top spot in the group.

"He has been fantastic," said Robertson. "Even when I came he was amazing but maybe did not have as much composure as he does now in front of goal.

"Now, every time he's in front of goal you don't think he'll miss. The one he had at the start of the second half (of the Palace game), we were surprised he didn't score and that is the type of player he is. You expect him to score and that is a good thing and he's popped up with another crucial goal."

"The others are pitching in as well but it's been a fantastic year for him and he's taken his game to another level," Robertson added.

Mane joined Liverpool in 2016, a year before Salah, but the Egyptian quickly became the alpha male at Anfield, scoring 44 goals in all competitions in a remarkable debut season in 2017/18.

Last season the two players shared the Premier League Golden Boot with Arsenal's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, with the three forwards all scoring 22 goals.

And Salah has pipped his teammate to the African player of the year award over the past two seasons.&nbsp;

Both have been shortlisted again for this year's prize and Mane, who reached the final of the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal this year, is seen as an outsider to win the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-dominates-ballon-dor-shortlist-with-seven-names-257421">Ballon d'Or</a>.

Mane has talked about how lucky he is to play alongside his two attacking comrades-in-arms.

"Every single player who plays alongside them would enjoy it because they are very good players and they make everything easy, so I just enjoy playing alongside them," he told the official Liverpool magazine.

Despite those warm words, there was a rare display of emotion from the 27-year-old earlier this season when he was substituted at Burnley, furious that Salah had not passed to him when he was in a better position.

It led to suggestions that all was not harmonious between the pair, but Mane was quick to correct any impression of an underlying problem.

"It can happen, he didn't see me and I was frustrated. We are really good friends," he said.

A 176-second hat-trick for Southampton in 2015 catapulted Mane to worldwide attention.

He joined Liverpool the following year for £34 million ($44 million) and was voted the club's player of the year in his debut season.

Last year the Senegalese signed a new deal committing him to the club until 2023.

At the time <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/klopp-praises-liverpool-intensity-after-crucial-win-over-city-261303">Klopp</a> called him the "complete" attacking player and said he had improved season by season.

"The only criticism I could ever have of Sadio is that maybe at times he is the only one not to see just how good he is," said the Liverpool boss.&nbsp;

The question harassed defenders will be asking themselves is just how good he will be when he starts fully believing in himself.

Sadio Mane has, in the words of Liverpool teammate Andy Robertson, "taken his game to another level", stepping out of Mohamed Salah's shadow to become arguably the main man at Anfield.

Sadio Mane has, in the words of Liverpool teammate Andy Robertson, "taken his game to another level", stepping out of Mohamed Salah's shadow to become arguably the main man at Anfield. The Senegal international shares star billing with Salah and Roberto Firmino as part of the European champions' electrifying and fluid front three. But this year Mane is leading Liverpool's charge, his goal at Selhurst Park at the weekend was his 12th of the campaign and his 29th for the club in the calendar year. Mane frightens defences with his pace, direct running and skill and his goal return has eased the burden on the shoulders of Salah. Liverpool defender Robertson praised Mane after his goal in the 2-1 victory against Crystal Palace, which kept Liverpool eight points clear of second-placed Leicester in the Premier League. On Wednesday he will train his sights on Napoli in the Champions League, with a win guaranteeing Liverpool top spot in the group. "He has been fantastic," said Robertson. "Even when I came he was amazing but maybe did not have as much composure as he does now in front of goal. "Now, every time he's in front of goal you don't think he'll miss. The one he had at the start of the second half (of the Palace game), we were surprised he didn't score and that is the type of player he is. You expect him to score and that is a good thing and he's popped up with another crucial goal." "The others are pitching in as well but it's been a fantastic year for him and he's taken his game to another level," Robertson added. Mane joined Liverpool in 2016, a year before Salah, but the Egyptian quickly became the alpha male at Anfield, scoring 44 goals in all competitions in a remarkable debut season in 2017/18. Last season the two players shared the Premier League Golden Boot with Arsenal's Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, with the three forwards all scoring 22 goals. And Salah has pipped his teammate to the African player of the year award over the past two seasons. Both have been shortlisted again for this year's prize and Mane, who reached the final of the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal this year, is seen as an outsider to win the Ballon d'Or. Mane has talked about how lucky he is to play alongside his two attacking comrades-in-arms. "Every single player who plays alongside them would enjoy it because they are very good players and they make everything easy, so I just enjoy playing alongside them," he told the official Liverpool magazine. Despite those warm words, there was a rare display of emotion from the 27-year-old earlier this season when he was substituted at Burnley, furious that Salah had not passed to him when he was in a better position. It led to suggestions that all was not harmonious between the pair, but Mane was quick to correct any impression of an underlying problem. "It can happen, he didn't see me and I was frustrated. We are really good friends," he said. A 176-second hat-trick for Southampton in 2015 catapulted Mane to worldwide attention. He joined Liverpool the following year for £34 million ($44 million) and was voted the club's player of the year in his debut season. Last year the Senegalese signed a new deal committing him to the club until 2023. At the time Klopp called him the "complete" attacking player and said he had improved season by season. "The only criticism I could ever have of Sadio is that maybe at times he is the only one not to see just how good he is," said the Liverpool boss. The question harassed defenders will be asking themselves is just how good he will be when he starts fully believing in himself.

Football: Mane the main man as Liverpool close on Champions League knockouts

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp says he feels no extra pressure to deliver the team's first Club World Cup title next month but expects an intense tournament in Qatar amidst a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-liverpools-klopp-unsure-how-he-will-approach-two-games-in-24-hours-260260">busy run of fixtures</a> across all competitions.

Liverpool enter the tournament at the semi-final stage and face a second-round winner on December&nbsp;18 and the German believes the European champions could be pushed hard by unfamiliar opponents in the seven-team competition.

"I'm not someone who has to be the first on the moon or the first winning the World Cup with Liverpool, but when we're there we'll try with all we have," Klopp told the FIFA website.

"So far, I don't feel any pressure. I see it as an absolute opportunity... the interesting and difficult part is that we'll be playing against teams from other continents, which doesn't happen that often... it'll be a tough one for sure."

The teams involved in the December&nbsp;11-21 tournament are CONCACAF champions Monterrey of Mexico; Qatar champions Al Sadd; Oceania title holders Hienghene Sport of New Caledonia; African champions Esperance of Tunisia; the eventual South American champions and the Asian Champions League winners.

"We'll prepare for it as we would usually and we'll see if it's right or wrong... I don't get to see a lot of Brazilian, Argentinian, Mexican or Arabic football... so I don't know too much about them... It'll be really intense," added Klopp.

Liverpool outclassed Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 in the Champions League final in June to claim their sixth European Cup and followed that by beating Europa League winners Chelsea 5-4 on penalties to lift the UEFA Super Cup.

Klopp's side have an eight-point lead <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-masterclass-leaves-manchester-city-in-tatters-261238">atop the Premier League</a> as they target a first English title in 30 years and can add another trophy to their cabinet before the year ends.

"Unfortunately, we won't round off 2019 in that moment (with the Club World Cup trophy) because there will be games to come before the year ends," said Klopp, whose side play 12 games across four competitions between November&nbsp;23 and January&nbsp;2.

Such is the fixture crunch that Liverpool could field two different squads in the League Cup quarter-final on December&nbsp;17 and Club World Cup the following day due to a lack of available dates to postpone the domestic game.

Klopp said he would not take the Club World Cup for granted.

"The only reason for us to go there is for the opportunity to win it and that's what we'll try... the boys want to play it so it'll be interesting... it'll feel big for us, 100 per cent."

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp says he feels no extra pressure to deliver the team's first Club World Cup title next month but expects an intense tournament in Qatar amidst a busy run of fixtures across all competitions.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp says he feels no extra pressure to deliver the team's first Club World Cup title next month but expects an intense tournament in Qatar amidst a busy run of fixtures across all competitions. Liverpool enter the tournament at the semi-final stage and face a second-round winner on December 18 and the German believes the European champions could be pushed hard by unfamiliar opponents in the seven-team competition. "I'm not someone who has to be the first on the moon or the first winning the World Cup with Liverpool, but when we're there we'll try with all we have," Klopp told the FIFA website. "So far, I don't feel any pressure. I see it as an absolute opportunity... the interesting and difficult part is that we'll be playing against teams from other continents, which doesn't happen that often... it'll be a tough one for sure." The teams involved in the December 11-21 tournament are CONCACAF champions Monterrey of Mexico; Qatar champions Al Sadd; Oceania title holders Hienghene Sport of New Caledonia; African champions Esperance of Tunisia; the eventual South American champions and the Asian Champions League winners. "We'll prepare for it as we would usually and we'll see if it's right or wrong... I don't get to see a lot of Brazilian, Argentinian, Mexican or Arabic football... so I don't know too much about them... It'll be really intense," added Klopp. Liverpool outclassed Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 in the Champions League final in June to claim their sixth European Cup and followed that by beating Europa League winners Chelsea 5-4 on penalties to lift the UEFA Super Cup. Klopp's side have an eight-point lead atop the Premier League as they target a first English title in 30 years and can add another trophy to their cabinet before the year ends. "Unfortunately, we won't round off 2019 in that moment (with the Club World Cup trophy) because there will be games to come before the year ends," said Klopp, whose side play 12 games across four competitions between November 23 and January 2. Such is the fixture crunch that Liverpool could field two different squads in the League Cup quarter-final on December 17 and Club World Cup the following day due to a lack of available dates to postpone the domestic game. Klopp said he would not take the Club World Cup for granted. "The only reason for us to go there is for the opportunity to win it and that's what we'll try... the boys want to play it so it'll be interesting... it'll feel big for us, 100 per cent."

Football: No pressure to land Club World Cup crown, says Liverpool's Klopp

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp says being nine points above Manchester City feels "completely new" and praised his side's intensity after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-masterclass-leaves-manchester-city-in-tatters-261238">3-1 victory </a>over their Premier League title rivals at Anfield on Sunday.

Goals by Fabinho, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane put Liverpool three goals up before Bernardo Silva's 78th-minute effort provoked a late City siege.

"You saw in the last 10 or 15 minutes when City scored the goal it gave them mental belief and from that moment they controlled the game," Klopp, whose side have an eight-point lead over Leicester City and Chelsea, said.

"But the other 70 minutes we controlled the game with our intensity and didn't let them do what they wanted. If that was so easy a lot more teams would try it, but the boys put in an incredible shift again."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-liverpools-klopp-unsure-how-he-will-approach-two-games-in-24-hours-260260">Klopp</a>, whose side are now unbeaten in 29 Premier League games, said all three goals were "incredible".

"That's what you need on a day like this. You have to score special goals against them, and you have to defend with your heads which is what we did," he said.

"I don't know many ways to beat City but if we want to do it we have to do it with intensity and with forcing them into our game and that's what the boys did today."

Klopp said he could understand opposite number Pep Guardiola's frustration with the opening goal when Fabinho lashed home on the counter-attack after Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold appeared to have handled in his own area.

"I didn't see it," he said. "People told me it hit Bernardo Silva's hand then Trent's. If Bernardo had scored with his hand it would have been disallowed, wherever the hand was.

"I understand how disappointed they are, we would feel exactly the same, 100 per cent. But on the other hand the reaction we showed seconds later in front of their box."

While admitting Liverpool were now in new territory with such a lead, Klopp said they might need every point.

"Each point we have we need to go through the most intense period ever," he said.

Alexander-Arnold described the win as a "massive three points" while fellow full back Andy Robertson said the opening goal had been crucial to the outcome.

"We didn't start the best. I think they had two corners inside the first minute so it was always going to be an important factor," he said.

"Now it's all about keeping it in perspective. We'll see where we are after Christmas and the busy period coming up."

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp says being nine points above Manchester City feels "completely new" and praised his side's intensity after a 3-1 victory over their Premier League title rivals at Anfield on Sunday.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp says being nine points above Manchester City feels "completely new" and praised his side's intensity after a 3-1 victory over their Premier League title rivals at Anfield on Sunday. Goals by Fabinho, Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane put Liverpool three goals up before Bernardo Silva's 78th-minute effort provoked a late City siege. "You saw in the last 10 or 15 minutes when City scored the goal it gave them mental belief and from that moment they controlled the game," Klopp, whose side have an eight-point lead over Leicester City and Chelsea, said. "But the other 70 minutes we controlled the game with our intensity and didn't let them do what they wanted. If that was so easy a lot more teams would try it, but the boys put in an incredible shift again." Klopp, whose side are now unbeaten in 29 Premier League games, said all three goals were "incredible". "That's what you need on a day like this. You have to score special goals against them, and you have to defend with your heads which is what we did," he said. "I don't know many ways to beat City but if we want to do it we have to do it with intensity and with forcing them into our game and that's what the boys did today." Klopp said he could understand opposite number Pep Guardiola's frustration with the opening goal when Fabinho lashed home on the counter-attack after Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold appeared to have handled in his own area. "I didn't see it," he said. "People told me it hit Bernardo Silva's hand then Trent's. If Bernardo had scored with his hand it would have been disallowed, wherever the hand was. "I understand how disappointed they are, we would feel exactly the same, 100 per cent. But on the other hand the reaction we showed seconds later in front of their box." While admitting Liverpool were now in new territory with such a lead, Klopp said they might need every point. "Each point we have we need to go through the most intense period ever," he said. Alexander-Arnold described the win as a "massive three points" while fellow full back Andy Robertson said the opening goal had been crucial to the outcome. "We didn't start the best. I think they had two corners inside the first minute so it was always going to be an important factor," he said. "Now it's all about keeping it in perspective. We'll see where we are after Christmas and the busy period coming up."

Klopp praises Liverpool intensity after crucial win over City

There is still more than six months of the Premier League season left, with 26 games and no doubt many plot twists ahead, but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-masterclass-leaves-manchester-city-in-tatters-261238">Liverpool's 3-1 win </a>over Manchester City on Sunday had the feel of a changing of the guard at the pinnacle of English football.

It was not so much the maths, though Liverpool's nine-point advantage over defending champions City, with a point less over Leicester City and Chelsea, is a significant gap, especially as<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-liverpools-klopp-unsure-how-he-will-approach-two-games-in-24-hours-260260"> Juergen Klopp's</a> side have lost one league game in 18 months.

But it was the manner of Liverpool's victory at Anfield which suggested that the fans' nearly 30-year wait for a domestic league title may be coming to a close.

City were by no means poor, and played their part in an entertaining encounter, but Liverpool were better in every department.

Klopp's side were sharper in attack, where Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane both found the target, more solid at the back and in the midfield were faster, stronger, harder and more incisive, as always helped by their rampaging full-backs.

Liverpool are European champions after overpowering teams of the calibre of Barcelona, bullying them physically, ripping them apart with speedy bursts down the flanks from Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson and through ruthless finishing.

City, though, have won the past two Premier League titles thanks to their technical brilliance and mastery of possession football which they executed with relentless consistency.

However, this season Liverpool have matched that level of consistency, unbeaten and with 11 wins from 12, they arrived at this game with the only question being whether they could cope with the unique challenge of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-guardiola-is-the-best-manager-in-the-world-juergen-klopp-260679">Pep Guardiola's</a> City machine.

The only conclusion after 90 minutes of high quality football was that Liverpool have no weak spots. It is hard to think of any team in the world who would enter the intimidating atmosphere of Anfield confident of leaving with a win.

City, in contrast, have had a major weakness exposed due to injuries and made an unfathomable mistake in the transfer market by not replacing former captain Vincent Kompany when he left the club in the close-season and that has come back to bite them.

City inexplicably given their huge resources, went into this season with just three established central defenders -- John Stones, Nicolas Otamendi and Aymeric Laporte.

Given that Laporte has been sidelined by injury since August and Otamendi's form has been haphazard at best, City went to Anfield with midfielder Fernandinho filling in alongside Stones.

Liverpool in contrast were able to replace Virgil van Dijk's injured defensive partner Joel Matip with the experienced Croatian Dejan Lovren and still had England international Joe Gomez in reserve on the bench.

There was no glaring error from City's defenders but there was an air of vulnerability about them throughout the game and the sense of certainty that Liverpool would punish Guardiola's back line for any slip-up.

Last season, City delivered a tactically mature and disciplined performance in a goalless draw at Anfield but, as Guardiola conceded, this game was more similar to the 2018 Champions League quarter-final, where City were blown apart after going two goals down in the opening 20 minutes.

“If you give them an inch, they will take that and score goals," said City's Portuguese midfielder Bernardo Silva, who grabbed their late consolation goal.

"That’s what happens. You can play better than Liverpool and be 2-0 or 3-0 behind. They are maybe the best team in the world with their counter-attack, second balls and set pieces."

City will recover from this loss, surely will strengthen their defence in the January transfer window and it would be a foolish pundit who writes them off.

"It’s still November and we still have games to play. We’re not in an ideal position – we don’t want to lose games – and we have to improve," said Silva. “We were in this position last season. We’ll never give up."

Liverpool's protestations that this game decided nothing were inevitable but there was no hiding the desire Klopp has to deliver that long absent league title.

"Nine points, you cannot imagine that something like this happens," said the German. "But it's not important because who wants to be first in early November? We want to be first in May."

There is still more than six months of the Premier League season left, with 26 games and no doubt many plot twists ahead, but Liverpool's 3-1 win over Manchester City on Sunday had the feel of a changing of the guard at the pinnacle of English football.

There is still more than six months of the Premier League season left, with 26 games and no doubt many plot twists ahead, but Liverpool's 3-1 win over Manchester City on Sunday had the feel of a changing of the guard at the pinnacle of English football. It was not so much the maths, though Liverpool's nine-point advantage over defending champions City, with a point less over Leicester City and Chelsea, is a significant gap, especially as Juergen Klopp's side have lost one league game in 18 months. But it was the manner of Liverpool's victory at Anfield which suggested that the fans' nearly 30-year wait for a domestic league title may be coming to a close. City were by no means poor, and played their part in an entertaining encounter, but Liverpool were better in every department. Klopp's side were sharper in attack, where Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane both found the target, more solid at the back and in the midfield were faster, stronger, harder and more incisive, as always helped by their rampaging full-backs. Liverpool are European champions after overpowering teams of the calibre of Barcelona, bullying them physically, ripping them apart with speedy bursts down the flanks from Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson and through ruthless finishing. City, though, have won the past two Premier League titles thanks to their technical brilliance and mastery of possession football which they executed with relentless consistency. However, this season Liverpool have matched that level of consistency, unbeaten and with 11 wins from 12, they arrived at this game with the only question being whether they could cope with the unique challenge of Pep Guardiola's City machine. The only conclusion after 90 minutes of high quality football was that Liverpool have no weak spots. It is hard to think of any team in the world who would enter the intimidating atmosphere of Anfield confident of leaving with a win. City, in contrast, have had a major weakness exposed due to injuries and made an unfathomable mistake in the transfer market by not replacing former captain Vincent Kompany when he left the club in the close-season and that has come back to bite them. City inexplicably given their huge resources, went into this season with just three established central defenders -- John Stones, Nicolas Otamendi and Aymeric Laporte. Given that Laporte has been sidelined by injury since August and Otamendi's form has been haphazard at best, City went to Anfield with midfielder Fernandinho filling in alongside Stones. Liverpool in contrast were able to replace Virgil van Dijk's injured defensive partner Joel Matip with the experienced Croatian Dejan Lovren and still had England international Joe Gomez in reserve on the bench. There was no glaring error from City's defenders but there was an air of vulnerability about them throughout the game and the sense of certainty that Liverpool would punish Guardiola's back line for any slip-up. Last season, City delivered a tactically mature and disciplined performance in a goalless draw at Anfield but, as Guardiola conceded, this game was more similar to the 2018 Champions League quarter-final, where City were blown apart after going two goals down in the opening 20 minutes. “If you give them an inch, they will take that and score goals," said City's Portuguese midfielder Bernardo Silva, who grabbed their late consolation goal. "That’s what happens. You can play better than Liverpool and be 2-0 or 3-0 behind. They are maybe the best team in the world with their counter-attack, second balls and set pieces." City will recover from this loss, surely will strengthen their defence in the January transfer window and it would be a foolish pundit who writes them off. "It’s still November and we still have games to play. We’re not in an ideal position – we don’t want to lose games – and we have to improve," said Silva. “We were in this position last season. We’ll never give up." Liverpool's protestations that this game decided nothing were inevitable but there was no hiding the desire Klopp has to deliver that long absent league title. "Nine points, you cannot imagine that something like this happens," said the German. "But it's not important because who wants to be first in early November? We want to be first in May."

Premier League: Liverpool win over City suggests long wait may come to an end

Manchester City players were left fuming in the dressing room after watching replays of Liverpool's controversial opening goal in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-masterclass-leaves-manchester-city-in-tatters-261238">3-1 loss</a> at Anfield on Sunday, midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has said.

Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold appeared to handle the ball inside his own box in the sixth minute but instead of a City penalty the hosts broke and 22 seconds later Fabinho drilled in a spectacular goal from outside the box.

The goal was checked by VAR and allowed to stand as Liverpool went on to clinch the victory and move nine points clear of City in the Premier League title race.

"We saw the incident again in the dressing room afterwards and for me, obviously, it's a penalty - but if you ask a Liverpool player they would say, 'You can give it but it's maybe a 50-50 situation,'" Gundogan told reporters.

"It takes a tough mentality to fight against that and unfortunately they scored the second straight after."

City are aiming to become the first team since Manchester United in 2009 to win three consecutive Premier League titles but now occupy fourth spot in the table.

Last season, City recovered in the second half of the campaign to erase Liverpool's 10-point lead at the top and Gundogan wants the same level of commitment from his team mates.

"We have to accept it, but there is a long way to go. Last season in January we were quite far behind and able to turn it around," Gundogan added.

Manchester City players were left fuming in the dressing room after watching replays of Liverpool's controversial opening goal in a 3-1 loss at Anfield on Sunday, midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has said.

Manchester City players were left fuming in the dressing room after watching replays of Liverpool's controversial opening goal in a 3-1 loss at Anfield on Sunday, midfielder Ilkay Gundogan has said. Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold appeared to handle the ball inside his own box in the sixth minute but instead of a City penalty the hosts broke and 22 seconds later Fabinho drilled in a spectacular goal from outside the box. The goal was checked by VAR and allowed to stand as Liverpool went on to clinch the victory and move nine points clear of City in the Premier League title race. "We saw the incident again in the dressing room afterwards and for me, obviously, it's a penalty - but if you ask a Liverpool player they would say, 'You can give it but it's maybe a 50-50 situation,'" Gundogan told reporters. "It takes a tough mentality to fight against that and unfortunately they scored the second straight after." City are aiming to become the first team since Manchester United in 2009 to win three consecutive Premier League titles but now occupy fourth spot in the table. Last season, City recovered in the second half of the campaign to erase Liverpool's 10-point lead at the top and Gundogan wants the same level of commitment from his team mates. "We have to accept it, but there is a long way to go. Last season in January we were quite far behind and able to turn it around," Gundogan added.

Manchester City players fuming at Liverpool opener: Gundogan

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has hailed Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola as the best manager in the world as the Premier League rivals gear up for Sunday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-liverpool-sense-chance-to-leave-city-in-their-wake-260408">top-of-the-table clash</a> at Anfield.

Leaders Liverpool have a six-point advantage over the defending champions and the match is a crucial one for both sides.

The build-up has been coloured by Guardiola saying Liverpool's Sadio Mane sometimes dived and then backtracking.

Klopp, who has taken a dig at City's "tactical fouling", drew a line under the verbal sparring on Thursday in an interview with Sky Sports television.

"We constantly get asked questions and sometimes we say what is in that second in our mind without thinking about anything else, that we are in public, that there is a camera," said the German.

"I couldn’t have more respect for Pep Guardiola, that’s how it is. I’ve known him for so long, for me still it’s a big thing to be his contender.

"For me he's the best manager in the world and we have the chance to win against his team which is very difficult but possible. That's enough for me."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-klopp-refuses-to-be-distracted-by-manchester-city-as-liverpool-welcome-genk-260004">Klopp</a> dismissed a suggestion that the match was as much one Liverpool could not afford to lose as must win.

"For me, it's a 100 per cent&nbsp;want-to-win game,100 per cent&nbsp;with all I have," he said. "We want to win and we try everything to make that happen, which is difficult enough. And then after that we will see how the situation is and use that situation.

"But it's a big one, we know that. The whole world will be watching that game, I would 100 per cent, everybody I know will, so it's a massive one."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-costas-stoppage-time-gem-sends-juventus-into-last-16-260436">Champions League</a> winners Liverpool lost at Manchester City last season after a goalless draw at Anfield and were beaten to the title by a single point.

"Last year's performance of City at Liverpool was probably the biggest show of respect I ever got, that one of my teams ever got, because they played different to what they usually do," said Klopp.

"I expect a tight game. How exactly it will be, I don't know."

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has hailed Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola as the best manager in the world as the Premier League rivals gear up for Sunday's top-of-the-table clash at Anfield.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has hailed Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola as the best manager in the world as the Premier League rivals gear up for Sunday's top-of-the-table clash at Anfield. Leaders Liverpool have a six-point advantage over the defending champions and the match is a crucial one for both sides. The build-up has been coloured by Guardiola saying Liverpool's Sadio Mane sometimes dived and then backtracking. Klopp, who has taken a dig at City's "tactical fouling", drew a line under the verbal sparring on Thursday in an interview with Sky Sports television. "We constantly get asked questions and sometimes we say what is in that second in our mind without thinking about anything else, that we are in public, that there is a camera," said the German. "I couldn’t have more respect for Pep Guardiola, that’s how it is. I’ve known him for so long, for me still it’s a big thing to be his contender. "For me he's the best manager in the world and we have the chance to win against his team which is very difficult but possible. That's enough for me." Klopp dismissed a suggestion that the match was as much one Liverpool could not afford to lose as must win. "For me, it's a 100 per cent want-to-win game,100 per cent with all I have," he said. "We want to win and we try everything to make that happen, which is difficult enough. And then after that we will see how the situation is and use that situation. "But it's a big one, we know that. The whole world will be watching that game, I would 100 per cent, everybody I know will, so it's a massive one." Champions League winners Liverpool lost at Manchester City last season after a goalless draw at Anfield and were beaten to the title by a single point. "Last year's performance of City at Liverpool was probably the biggest show of respect I ever got, that one of my teams ever got, because they played different to what they usually do," said Klopp. "I expect a tight game. How exactly it will be, I don't know."

Football: Guardiola is the best manager in the world, says Juergen Klopp

Liverpool have a gilt-edged chance to inflict a hammer blow on Manchester City's hopes of a third successive<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-fa-overturn-spurs-striker-sons-red-card-for-tackle-on-evertons-gomes-260237"> Premier League</a> crown in a seismic clash at Anfield on Sunday but failure to do so could revive bitter memories.

Rewind to the third day of the year at the Etihad Stadium and Liverpool were in a similar position of strength.

Victory then would have shot them 10 points clear. They lost a frenetic clash 2-1, however, and City relentlessly reeled them in to win an epic title race with 98 points to Liverpool's 97.

This time Liverpool are at home, and victory would put them nine points clear. It feels like a chance they cannot afford to pass up as they seek a first league title since 1990.

"With a deficit like that,&nbsp;even in mid-November,&nbsp;Pep Guardiola knows he would have a mountain to climb to win the Premier League," former England striker and BBC pundit Alan Shearer said this week.

Third-placed Leicester City welcome fifth-placed Arsenal on Saturday after fourth-placed Chelsea take on Crystal Palace but all eyes will be focussed on the showdown on Merseyside.

Rarely does a fixture, especially one played as early in the season, justify the hype but such is the quality and reliability of Liverpool and City, the consequences of the result are difficult to play down.

Liverpool have seemingly forgotten how to lose. They are unbeaten in 28 league matches since losing to City and at Anfield they have not lost in the league since April 2017.

Yet neither side have been quite at their best of late, relying on the never-say-die attitude that has become as important a weapon as their fearsome forward lines.

Both clawed back 1-0 deficits with late goals to claim 2-1 victories last weekend. City trailed Southampton before Sergio Aguero and Kyle Walker turned it around.

Liverpool cut it even finer. They trailed Aston Villa until the 87th minute before goals from Andy Robertson and Sadio Mane clinched a victory which means they have a little more margin for error this weekend.

"What Liverpool have is an incredible quality to fight right until the end," Guardiola said ahead of his side's Champions League clash away to Atalanta on Wednesday,&nbsp;24 hours after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-oxlade-chamberlain-strike-gives-liverpool-win-over-genk-260251">Liverpool beat Genk</a> 2-1 at Anfield.

"Good teams keep going. They wear you down, they have that belief," Shearer said this week. "It happened to Man United under Alex Ferguson all those years ago, it's not a coincidence they scored all those late goals."

Guardiola spiced it up this week with comments claiming Liverpool's Mane was prone to diving. Klopp retaliated saying City had perfected "tactical fouling".

The talking will stop on Sunday, however, when England's finest two sides do battle.

"Both teams will try to win the game," Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum said. "We're both in good shape. I think they are worried about us, we have players to hurt them. But they have players to hurt us. It's a game we need to win."

While talk of two-horse races is merited, City could actually be fourth come kickoff if Leicester beat Arsenal and Chelsea beat Palace on Saturday. Sixth-placed Sheffield United are also threatening to gatecrash the European places and travel to a Tottenham side without a win in four league games.

A Midlands derby provides the appetiser for Sunday's Anfield feast with Wolverhampton Wanderers hosting Aston Villa while Manchester United take on Brighton.

Liverpool have a gilt-edged chance to inflict a hammer blow on Manchester City's hopes of a third successive Premier League crown in a seismic clash at Anfield on Sunday but failure to do so could revive bitter memories.

Liverpool have a gilt-edged chance to inflict a hammer blow on Manchester City's hopes of a third successive Premier League crown in a seismic clash at Anfield on Sunday but failure to do so could revive bitter memories. Rewind to the third day of the year at the Etihad Stadium and Liverpool were in a similar position of strength. Victory then would have shot them 10 points clear. They lost a frenetic clash 2-1, however, and City relentlessly reeled them in to win an epic title race with 98 points to Liverpool's 97. This time Liverpool are at home, and victory would put them nine points clear. It feels like a chance they cannot afford to pass up as they seek a first league title since 1990. "With a deficit like that, even in mid-November, Pep Guardiola knows he would have a mountain to climb to win the Premier League," former England striker and BBC pundit Alan Shearer said this week. Third-placed Leicester City welcome fifth-placed Arsenal on Saturday after fourth-placed Chelsea take on Crystal Palace but all eyes will be focussed on the showdown on Merseyside. Rarely does a fixture, especially one played as early in the season, justify the hype but such is the quality and reliability of Liverpool and City, the consequences of the result are difficult to play down. Liverpool have seemingly forgotten how to lose. They are unbeaten in 28 league matches since losing to City and at Anfield they have not lost in the league since April 2017. Yet neither side have been quite at their best of late, relying on the never-say-die attitude that has become as important a weapon as their fearsome forward lines. Both clawed back 1-0 deficits with late goals to claim 2-1 victories last weekend. City trailed Southampton before Sergio Aguero and Kyle Walker turned it around. Liverpool cut it even finer. They trailed Aston Villa until the 87th minute before goals from Andy Robertson and Sadio Mane clinched a victory which means they have a little more margin for error this weekend. "What Liverpool have is an incredible quality to fight right until the end," Guardiola said ahead of his side's Champions League clash away to Atalanta on Wednesday, 24 hours after Liverpool beat Genk 2-1 at Anfield. "Good teams keep going. They wear you down, they have that belief," Shearer said this week. "It happened to Man United under Alex Ferguson all those years ago, it's not a coincidence they scored all those late goals." Guardiola spiced it up this week with comments claiming Liverpool's Mane was prone to diving. Klopp retaliated saying City had perfected "tactical fouling". The talking will stop on Sunday, however, when England's finest two sides do battle. "Both teams will try to win the game," Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum said. "We're both in good shape. I think they are worried about us, we have players to hurt them. But they have players to hurt us. It's a game we need to win." While talk of two-horse races is merited, City could actually be fourth come kickoff if Leicester beat Arsenal and Chelsea beat Palace on Saturday. Sixth-placed Sheffield United are also threatening to gatecrash the European places and travel to a Tottenham side without a win in four league games. A Midlands derby provides the appetiser for Sunday's Anfield feast with Wolverhampton Wanderers hosting Aston Villa while Manchester United take on Brighton.

Premier League: Liverpool sense chance to leave City in their wake

Liverpool manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-klopp-may-pull-liverpool-out-of-league-cup-over-fixture-pile-up-258925">Juergen Klopp</a> said it was too soon to decide exactly how his team will play two games in 24 hours in England and Qatar but it was time to address the regular fixture pile-ups facing top clubs.

Premier League leaders and European champions Liverpool plan to field two different squads in the League Cup and FIFA's Club World Cup in the space of 24 hours in December due to a lack of available dates to postpone the domestic match.

Liverpool's League Cup quarter-final against Aston Villa is set to be played on December&nbsp;17,&nbsp;the week they travel to Qatar for the Club World Cup where they play their first match on December&nbsp;18.

It is not yet clear how Liverpool will split their squad and whether Klopp will be present at both games.

"We asked Aston Villa if they could come to Qatar and we could play the game there," joked Klopp when asked about the situation after his team's 2-1 win over Genk in the Champions League on Tuesday.

"We don't know exactly how we do it, we have an idea but its too early to speak about it. We had to make a decision, we made that decision because all the other alternatives were more problems than solutions and didn’t work out.

"We said this way we can do as good as is possible. In the next couple of weeks we will decide exactly how it will look," he said.

Asked if the club had faced pressure from FIFA and the English Football League (EFL) over the situation, Klopp said: "Kind of. You want to be really in trouble with FIFA? I’m not sure. You want to be really in trouble with the EFL, probably not. We respect the competitions."

The German said his main issue with the League Cup was playing two-legged semi-finals at a busy time in the campaign.

"I don’t understand that and I don’t like it. With the rest it is a nice competition," he said.

"The Club World Cup you play only if you win the Champions League and that doesn’t happen in your life five million times, you take the opportunity. Is it the best time of the year? Nope. Are we anyway pretty busy? Yep. But we go there, we try to play all the games we have, with all that we have," he said.

Klopp, who guided Liverpool to the Champions League title last season, said it was wrong that competitions were relying on certain teams going out in order to keep the fixtures in order.

"You cannot work like this that you hope that somebody goes out and then everything is fine," he said.

"I don’t want to cancel competitions, I am from Germany, why would I want to cancel English competitions? But it should still be possible to talk about the problems and that is what I did. If some people don’t like that – I cannot change.

"The problems are obvious. Every year we do the same thing – and some people find it funny that 'Look at that they have to play five games in three days, let's see how they do that?'”

"We cannot carry on like this, come on, that is why I asked to sit down at a table because at one point we have to find a solution, the solutions so far sound to me more like another problem."

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said it was too soon to decide exactly how his team will play two games in 24 hours in England and Qatar but it was time to address the regular fixture pile-ups facing top clubs.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said it was too soon to decide exactly how his team will play two games in 24 hours in England and Qatar but it was time to address the regular fixture pile-ups facing top clubs. Premier League leaders and European champions Liverpool plan to field two different squads in the League Cup and FIFA's Club World Cup in the space of 24 hours in December due to a lack of available dates to postpone the domestic match. Liverpool's League Cup quarter-final against Aston Villa is set to be played on December 17, the week they travel to Qatar for the Club World Cup where they play their first match on December 18. It is not yet clear how Liverpool will split their squad and whether Klopp will be present at both games. "We asked Aston Villa if they could come to Qatar and we could play the game there," joked Klopp when asked about the situation after his team's 2-1 win over Genk in the Champions League on Tuesday. "We don't know exactly how we do it, we have an idea but its too early to speak about it. We had to make a decision, we made that decision because all the other alternatives were more problems than solutions and didn’t work out. "We said this way we can do as good as is possible. In the next couple of weeks we will decide exactly how it will look," he said. Asked if the club had faced pressure from FIFA and the English Football League (EFL) over the situation, Klopp said: "Kind of. You want to be really in trouble with FIFA? I’m not sure. You want to be really in trouble with the EFL, probably not. We respect the competitions." The German said his main issue with the League Cup was playing two-legged semi-finals at a busy time in the campaign. "I don’t understand that and I don’t like it. With the rest it is a nice competition," he said. "The Club World Cup you play only if you win the Champions League and that doesn’t happen in your life five million times, you take the opportunity. Is it the best time of the year? Nope. Are we anyway pretty busy? Yep. But we go there, we try to play all the games we have, with all that we have," he said. Klopp, who guided Liverpool to the Champions League title last season, said it was wrong that competitions were relying on certain teams going out in order to keep the fixtures in order. "You cannot work like this that you hope that somebody goes out and then everything is fine," he said. "I don’t want to cancel competitions, I am from Germany, why would I want to cancel English competitions? But it should still be possible to talk about the problems and that is what I did. If some people don’t like that – I cannot change. "The problems are obvious. Every year we do the same thing – and some people find it funny that 'Look at that they have to play five games in three days, let's see how they do that?'” "We cannot carry on like this, come on, that is why I asked to sit down at a table because at one point we have to find a solution, the solutions so far sound to me more like another problem."

Football: Liverpool's Klopp unsure how he will approach two games in 24 hours

Liverpool will field two different playing squads in the League Cup and Club World Cup in the space of 24 hours in December due to a lack of available dates to postpone their League Cup quarter-final, the Premier League club said on Tuesday.

The quarter-final against Aston Villa is set to be played on December&nbsp;17,&nbsp;the same week Juergen Klopp's side travel to Qatar for the FIFA Club World Cup where they play their first match on December&nbsp;18.

After knocking Arsenal out in the last 16, Klopp had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-klopp-may-pull-liverpool-out-of-league-cup-over-fixture-pile-up-258925">threatened to pull</a> the Anfield side out of the League Cup if they could not find a suitable date for the quarter-final tie.

"We will be utilising two playing squads simultaneously, with one squad participating in the FIFA Club World Cup in Qatar and another in the Carabao Cup," the club said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The club would like to take this opportunity to underline that while this is not an ideal scenario, it is an outcome which was arrived at with the best interests of the competition, our fellow clubs and ourselves as the sole motivating factor."

Liverpool said they had discussed alternative dates with the English Football League but could not find a suitable one that would not compromise the competition's schedule.

Liverpool will field two different playing squads in the League Cup and Club World Cup in the space of 24 hours in December due to a lack of available dates to postpone their League Cup quarter-final, the Premier League club said on Tuesday.

Liverpool will field two different playing squads in the League Cup and Club World Cup in the space of 24 hours in December due to a lack of available dates to postpone their League Cup quarter-final, the Premier League club said on Tuesday. The quarter-final against Aston Villa is set to be played on December 17, the same week Juergen Klopp's side travel to Qatar for the FIFA Club World Cup where they play their first match on December 18. After knocking Arsenal out in the last 16, Klopp had threatened to pull the Anfield side out of the League Cup if they could not find a suitable date for the quarter-final tie. "We will be utilising two playing squads simultaneously, with one squad participating in the FIFA Club World Cup in Qatar and another in the Carabao Cup," the club said in a statement. "The club would like to take this opportunity to underline that while this is not an ideal scenario, it is an outcome which was arrived at with the best interests of the competition, our fellow clubs and ourselves as the sole motivating factor." Liverpool said they had discussed alternative dates with the English Football League but could not find a suitable one that would not compromise the competition's schedule.

Football: Liverpool to field two different squads in two competitions simultaneously

Liverpool will not allow themselves to be distracted by the weekend's Premier League match against Manchester City and are solely focused on Tuesday's Champions League group game against Genk, manager <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-klopp-may-pull-liverpool-out-of-league-cup-over-fixture-pile-up-258925">Juergen Klopp</a> has said.

League leaders <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-and-city-grab-late-wins-manchester-united-lose-259581">Liverpool</a> host City in a top-of-the-table clash on Sunday as they look to extend a six-point advantage.

European champions Liverpool are second in their Champions League group,&nbsp;a point behind Napoli,&nbsp;and Klopp's side host Genk at Anfield.

"I don't think about Man City, I don't have to tell the boys. The story they wrote the last three years is only possible because we focus on the next game," Klopp told reporters on Monday.

"We have big ambitions in the Champions League and it's an open group. We have to be 100% spot on, we have to make an atmosphere, get these points. For the people at Anfield, we need to focus on this match, same as the players.

"I don't doubt my players at all, I would feel a bit embarrassed if I had to tell them, 'Don't think about Man City already'."

Klopp also hit back at City boss Pep Guardiola, who accused Liverpool forward Sadio Mane of diving after his match-winning display against Aston Villa over the weekend.

"I don't know how he could have known about any incident in our game so quickly after the game," Klopp added. "Sadio is not a diver. There was a situation in the Villa game when he got contact and went down but there was contact.

"I'm 100 per cent&nbsp;sure if something like this happened to Man City they would want to have a penalty. I'm absolutely not in the mood to talk about Man City, I really want to talk about Genk."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/oxlade-chamberlain-hits-double-as-liverpool-trounce-genk-257879">Liverpool beat Genk</a> 4-1 away in the previous round of fixtures but Klopp said they would "respect" the Belgian side as they were targeting a third-place finish and a spot in the Europa League knockout stages.

"The group is still open and we need everyone," the German manager said. "They can still make Europa League so they still have targets. We need to respect them."

Liverpool will not allow themselves to be distracted by the weekend's Premier League match against Manchester City and are solely focused on Tuesday's Champions League group game against Genk, manager Juergen Klopp has said.

Liverpool will not allow themselves to be distracted by the weekend's Premier League match against Manchester City and are solely focused on Tuesday's Champions League group game against Genk, manager Juergen Klopp has said. League leaders Liverpool host City in a top-of-the-table clash on Sunday as they look to extend a six-point advantage. European champions Liverpool are second in their Champions League group, a point behind Napoli, and Klopp's side host Genk at Anfield. "I don't think about Man City, I don't have to tell the boys. The story they wrote the last three years is only possible because we focus on the next game," Klopp told reporters on Monday. "We have big ambitions in the Champions League and it's an open group. We have to be 100% spot on, we have to make an atmosphere, get these points. For the people at Anfield, we need to focus on this match, same as the players. "I don't doubt my players at all, I would feel a bit embarrassed if I had to tell them, 'Don't think about Man City already'." Klopp also hit back at City boss Pep Guardiola, who accused Liverpool forward Sadio Mane of diving after his match-winning display against Aston Villa over the weekend. "I don't know how he could have known about any incident in our game so quickly after the game," Klopp added. "Sadio is not a diver. There was a situation in the Villa game when he got contact and went down but there was contact. "I'm 100 per cent sure if something like this happened to Man City they would want to have a penalty. I'm absolutely not in the mood to talk about Man City, I really want to talk about Genk." Liverpool beat Genk 4-1 away in the previous round of fixtures but Klopp said they would "respect" the Belgian side as they were targeting a third-place finish and a spot in the Europa League knockout stages. "The group is still open and we need everyone," the German manager said. "They can still make Europa League so they still have targets. We need to respect them."

Football: Klopp refuses to be distracted by Manchester City as Liverpool welcome Genk

Premier League leaders Liverpool may have got some late luck against Aston Villa and must improve, but still merited their latest comeback, elated manager Juergen Klopp said on Saturday.

Klopp's table-topping side were staring at their first league defeat in 10 months until the 87th minute of their game at Villa Park, but snatched a last-gasp victory thanks to headers from Andy Robertson and Sadio Mane.

"We still have to learn, we still have to improve, we do, we will, I know that," Klopp told reporters after celebrating on the pitch at Villa Park with his relieved players.

"And sometimes you need to get knocks ... But at the end, in the moment, so far, we could sort it, most of the time. Yes of course when you score these kind of goals, it’s lucky but it’s not that we didn’t deserve to win the game."

Asked about his emotions, after Villa surprisingly took the game to Liverpool and could have scored within 60 seconds before they did in the 21st minute, Klopp said he has a single focus.

"I never thought a second about 'did we lose already?' or 'can we win?' We just have to try to score, that’s everything.

"It’s not that I think because now we have a couple of comebacks today is another comeback," said Klopp, whose team also went a goal down to Tottenham Hotspur last weekend before winning 2-1.

"We know it’s possible, everybody knows it’s possible, but we really know it, and the boys tried it ... That’s football ... We don’t have any alternatives, what can we do?"

Villa manager Dean Smith thought his team also deserved something from the game.

"It wasn’t one-way traffic, we’ve had opportunities to make it two-nil," he said. "I’m very proud of their performance … I think we’re a very competitive team at this level … Today we’ve gone toe-to-toe.

"I'm proud but also hurt because we deserved something from that game. We’ve got to take that hurt into the next game and learn from it."

&nbsp;

Premier League leaders Liverpool may have got some late luck against Aston Villa and must improve, but still merited their latest comeback, elated manager Juergen Klopp said on Saturday.

Premier League leaders Liverpool may have got some late luck against Aston Villa and must improve, but still merited their latest comeback, elated manager Juergen Klopp said on Saturday. Klopp's table-topping side were staring at their first league defeat in 10 months until the 87th minute of their game at Villa Park, but snatched a last-gasp victory thanks to headers from Andy Robertson and Sadio Mane. "We still have to learn, we still have to improve, we do, we will, I know that," Klopp told reporters after celebrating on the pitch at Villa Park with his relieved players. "And sometimes you need to get knocks ... But at the end, in the moment, so far, we could sort it, most of the time. Yes of course when you score these kind of goals, it’s lucky but it’s not that we didn’t deserve to win the game." Asked about his emotions, after Villa surprisingly took the game to Liverpool and could have scored within 60 seconds before they did in the 21st minute, Klopp said he has a single focus. "I never thought a second about 'did we lose already?' or 'can we win?' We just have to try to score, that’s everything. "It’s not that I think because now we have a couple of comebacks today is another comeback," said Klopp, whose team also went a goal down to Tottenham Hotspur last weekend before winning 2-1. "We know it’s possible, everybody knows it’s possible, but we really know it, and the boys tried it ... That’s football ... We don’t have any alternatives, what can we do?" Villa manager Dean Smith thought his team also deserved something from the game. "It wasn’t one-way traffic, we’ve had opportunities to make it two-nil," he said. "I’m very proud of their performance … I think we’re a very competitive team at this level … Today we’ve gone toe-to-toe. "I'm proud but also hurt because we deserved something from that game. We’ve got to take that hurt into the next game and learn from it."

Liverpool got lucky but still deserved to win: Juergen Klopp

Anfield debutant Curtis Jones scored the winning spot-kick as Liverpool beat Arsenal on penalties after an astonishing 5-5 draw to reach the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-city-stroll-to-3-1-league-cup-win-over-southampton-258735">League Cup</a> quarter-finals on Wednesday.

The 18-year-old substitute kept his cool in front of the Kop to send Liverpool through after the hosts had trailed 3-1, 4-2 and 5-4 before a stoppage-time equaliser by Divock Origi.

On a crazy evening, it looked as though Joe Willock's screamer had earned Arsenal a memorable victory, but Liverpool proved irrepressible as their barnstorming season continued.

Liverpool scored all five of their penalties while fledgling keeper Caoimhin Kelleher, 20, saved from Dani Ceballos.

It was only the second time Liverpool had conceded five at home in the last 66 years. The other occasion was a 6-3 League Cup loss to Arsenal in 2007.

"We can talk about tactics but who cares on a night like this?" Klopp, whose side have dropped only two points in their opening 10 Premier League games, said.

"I hoped for the boys they would have a game to remember. What they did tonight, I lost it really.

"If you don't win nobody remembers it in three years, if it works out the boys will remember it forever."

Defeat was a bitter one for Arsenal manager Unai Emery whose decision to give Mesut Ozil only his third start of the season paid off with the German playmaker in dazzling form.

Willock's long-range effort appeared to have sealed a morale-boosting win for Arsenal after a difficult few days since squandering a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Crystal Palace.

"A crazy match. I am very proud of their work, we had a high rhythm in the first 45 minutes," Emery said.

"At the end we were winning until the last action. Penalties are 50/50 and we lost. We are sad but our work, we deserve to have more. There are lots of positives to take."

Klopp and Emery changed their entire lineups from the weekend's Premier League action with winger Harvey Elliott becoming the youngest Liverpool player (16 years, 209 days) to start at Anfield.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-mohamed-salah-fires-liverpool-to-comeback-win-over-spurs-258415">Liverpool</a> took the lead in the sixth minute as Arsenal's Shkodran Mustafi scored a comical own goal, his attempted clearance from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's low cross going into the net off his knee.

Arsenal levelled after 19 minutes when Mesut Ozil picked out Bukayo Saka in space and after his shot was saved and Liverpool could not clear, an offside-looking Lucas Torreira tapped home.

Brazilian teenager Gabriel Martinelli scored his first goal of the night seven minutes later to put Arsenal ahead, scooping in from close range after a save by Kelleher.

Liverpool self-destructed as Elliott's poor pass went to Ozil who played in Saka to square for Martinelli to score his seventh of the season and make it 3-1, but in the 43rd minute Elliott tumbled in the box at the other end and James Milner tucked away a penalty.

Milner's dreadful back pass allowed Ainsley Maitland-Niles to make it 4-2 after Ozil had performed wonders to recycle the ball but Arsenal old boy Oxlade-Chamberlain's spectacular effort reduced the arrears soon afterwards.

Liverpool equalised in the 62nd minute when Jones played in Origi who turned superbly before unleashing a shot too powerful for Arsenal keeper Emiliano Martinez.

Willock's goal arguably topped the lot though as he advanced forward before launching an unstoppable right-foot shot into the top corner from 30 metres.

But Liverpool have forgotten how to lose and Origi's shot on the turn, after a cross from 18-year-old Neco Williams, redeemed them at the death.

Anfield debutant Curtis Jones scored the winning spot-kick as Liverpool beat Arsenal on penalties after an astonishing 5-5 draw to reach the League Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday.

Anfield debutant Curtis Jones scored the winning spot-kick as Liverpool beat Arsenal on penalties after an astonishing 5-5 draw to reach the League Cup quarter-finals on Wednesday. The 18-year-old substitute kept his cool in front of the Kop to send Liverpool through after the hosts had trailed 3-1, 4-2 and 5-4 before a stoppage-time equaliser by Divock Origi. On a crazy evening, it looked as though Joe Willock's screamer had earned Arsenal a memorable victory, but Liverpool proved irrepressible as their barnstorming season continued. Liverpool scored all five of their penalties while fledgling keeper Caoimhin Kelleher, 20, saved from Dani Ceballos. It was only the second time Liverpool had conceded five at home in the last 66 years. The other occasion was a 6-3 League Cup loss to Arsenal in 2007. "We can talk about tactics but who cares on a night like this?" Klopp, whose side have dropped only two points in their opening 10 Premier League games, said. "I hoped for the boys they would have a game to remember. What they did tonight, I lost it really. "If you don't win nobody remembers it in three years, if it works out the boys will remember it forever." Defeat was a bitter one for Arsenal manager Unai Emery whose decision to give Mesut Ozil only his third start of the season paid off with the German playmaker in dazzling form. Willock's long-range effort appeared to have sealed a morale-boosting win for Arsenal after a difficult few days since squandering a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Crystal Palace. "A crazy match. I am very proud of their work, we had a high rhythm in the first 45 minutes," Emery said. "At the end we were winning until the last action. Penalties are 50/50 and we lost. We are sad but our work, we deserve to have more. There are lots of positives to take." Klopp and Emery changed their entire lineups from the weekend's Premier League action with winger Harvey Elliott becoming the youngest Liverpool player (16 years, 209 days) to start at Anfield. Liverpool took the lead in the sixth minute as Arsenal's Shkodran Mustafi scored a comical own goal, his attempted clearance from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's low cross going into the net off his knee. Arsenal levelled after 19 minutes when Mesut Ozil picked out Bukayo Saka in space and after his shot was saved and Liverpool could not clear, an offside-looking Lucas Torreira tapped home. Brazilian teenager Gabriel Martinelli scored his first goal of the night seven minutes later to put Arsenal ahead, scooping in from close range after a save by Kelleher. Liverpool self-destructed as Elliott's poor pass went to Ozil who played in Saka to square for Martinelli to score his seventh of the season and make it 3-1, but in the 43rd minute Elliott tumbled in the box at the other end and James Milner tucked away a penalty. Milner's dreadful back pass allowed Ainsley Maitland-Niles to make it 4-2 after Ozil had performed wonders to recycle the ball but Arsenal old boy Oxlade-Chamberlain's spectacular effort reduced the arrears soon afterwards. Liverpool equalised in the 62nd minute when Jones played in Origi who turned superbly before unleashing a shot too powerful for Arsenal keeper Emiliano Martinez. Willock's goal arguably topped the lot though as he advanced forward before launching an unstoppable right-foot shot into the top corner from 30 metres. But Liverpool have forgotten how to lose and Origi's shot on the turn, after a cross from 18-year-old Neco Williams, redeemed them at the death.

League Cup: Liverpool edge Arsenal on penalties after 10-goal thriller

Manager Juergen Klopp has said Liverpool will not play their League Cup quarter-final tie if it cannot be rescheduled to a suitable date that avoids clashing with the Club World Cup in December.

Liverpool beat Arsenal at Anfield in a penalty shootout on Wednesday after their last-16 tie ended 5-5 in regulation.

However, the competition's quarter-finals are set for the week commencing December&nbsp;16, the same week Klopp's side travel to Qatar for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/qatar-to-inaugurate-new-2022-stadium-during-club-world-cup-252855">FIFA Club World Cup</a>.

"We will not be the victim of this problem," Klopp told reporters. "The Carabao Cup ... if they don't find an appropriate place for us, not 3 a.m. on Christmas Day, then we don't play it.

"FIFA told us the Club World Cup will be there and we have to come there and we will do. The Premier League tells us we have to play in the Premier League, which we do obviously.

"If you have a fixture list where one team cannot be part of all the games, then you have to think about the fixture list. Hopefully it starts now."

Klopp also said that if the quarter-final tie cannot be moved then either their next opponent should advance or Arsenal could take Liverpool's place in the draw, which is to be held later on Thursday.

"We wanted to win it, we did that, and if they don't find a proper date for us then we cannot play the next round and whoever is our opponent will go through. Or Arsenal will play it," the German added.

Manager Juergen Klopp has said Liverpool will not play their League Cup quarter-final tie if it cannot be rescheduled to a suitable date that avoids clashing with the Club World Cup in December.

Manager Juergen Klopp has said Liverpool will not play their League Cup quarter-final tie if it cannot be rescheduled to a suitable date that avoids clashing with the Club World Cup in December. Liverpool beat Arsenal at Anfield in a penalty shootout on Wednesday after their last-16 tie ended 5-5 in regulation. However, the competition's quarter-finals are set for the week commencing December 16, the same week Klopp's side travel to Qatar for the FIFA Club World Cup. "We will not be the victim of this problem," Klopp told reporters. "The Carabao Cup ... if they don't find an appropriate place for us, not 3 a.m. on Christmas Day, then we don't play it. "FIFA told us the Club World Cup will be there and we have to come there and we will do. The Premier League tells us we have to play in the Premier League, which we do obviously. "If you have a fixture list where one team cannot be part of all the games, then you have to think about the fixture list. Hopefully it starts now." Klopp also said that if the quarter-final tie cannot be moved then either their next opponent should advance or Arsenal could take Liverpool's place in the draw, which is to be held later on Thursday. "We wanted to win it, we did that, and if they don't find a proper date for us then we cannot play the next round and whoever is our opponent will go through. Or Arsenal will play it," the German added.

Football: Juergen Klopp may pull Liverpool out of League Cup over fixture pile-up

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has recovered from an ankle injury to return to the squad for Wednesday's Champions League group game at Genk but they will take a late call on his participation, manager Juergen Klopp said on Tuesday.

Salah has not played since injuring his ankle in a 2-1 win over Leicester City earlier this month and he missed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-winning-streak-ends-with-draw-at-manchester-united-257174">the 1-1 draw </a>at Manchester United over the weekend, which ended the Anfield side's 17-match winning streak in the Premier League.

"It looks promising," Klopp told reporters when asked about the Egyptian's participation. "Yesterday we weren't sure, today it looks good but we won't take any risks. We will see how he does overnight."

However, centre back Joel Matip (sore knee) and full back Trent Alexander-Arnold (virus) did not make the trip to Belgium with defenders Dejan Lovren and Joe Gomez expected to replace them in the starting lineup.

"We thought (Matip's injury) would be a two-week thing before Man United," Klopp added. "It's not a serious thing but it's serious enough for him not to play tomorrow."

Defending champions Liverpool have three points after two games and are a point behind Group E leaders Napoli while Belgian champions Genk are bottom with one point.

"We don't want to make Genk bigger than they are but they are at home and they can be annoying," Klopp said. "They're a good team, we have to be here with the right mindset.

"They are organised and brave in their positioning. They don't play with the pressing line too much but go for second balls, have speed, good midfielders and very active full backs."

After Liverpool dominated this year's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-dominates-ballon-dor-shortlist-with-seven-names-257421">Ballon d'Or 30-man shortlist,</a> with seven footballers nominated, Klopp said his players "deserved" to make the list and hoped he could keep them together for the next few seasons.

"I'm proud of my boys in general, not just because seven of them have been nominated. I like them a lot and I'm happy when they win things," the German manager said.

"If it's a sign that we are now a destination for players, I don't know. We want to work together for the next couple of years and we'll see what happens."

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has recovered from an ankle injury to return to the squad for Wednesday's Champions League group game at Genk but they will take a late call on his participation, manager Juergen Klopp said on Tuesday.

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has recovered from an ankle injury to return to the squad for Wednesday's Champions League group game at Genk but they will take a late call on his participation, manager Juergen Klopp said on Tuesday. Salah has not played since injuring his ankle in a 2-1 win over Leicester City earlier this month and he missed the 1-1 draw at Manchester United over the weekend, which ended the Anfield side's 17-match winning streak in the Premier League. "It looks promising," Klopp told reporters when asked about the Egyptian's participation. "Yesterday we weren't sure, today it looks good but we won't take any risks. We will see how he does overnight." However, centre back Joel Matip (sore knee) and full back Trent Alexander-Arnold (virus) did not make the trip to Belgium with defenders Dejan Lovren and Joe Gomez expected to replace them in the starting lineup. "We thought (Matip's injury) would be a two-week thing before Man United," Klopp added. "It's not a serious thing but it's serious enough for him not to play tomorrow." Defending champions Liverpool have three points after two games and are a point behind Group E leaders Napoli while Belgian champions Genk are bottom with one point. "We don't want to make Genk bigger than they are but they are at home and they can be annoying," Klopp said. "They're a good team, we have to be here with the right mindset. "They are organised and brave in their positioning. They don't play with the pressing line too much but go for second balls, have speed, good midfielders and very active full backs." After Liverpool dominated this year's Ballon d'Or 30-man shortlist, with seven footballers nominated, Klopp said his players "deserved" to make the list and hoped he could keep them together for the next few seasons. "I'm proud of my boys in general, not just because seven of them have been nominated. I like them a lot and I'm happy when they win things," the German manager said. "If it's a sign that we are now a destination for players, I don't know. We want to work together for the next couple of years and we'll see what happens."

Mohamed Salah back in Liverpool squad but may not be risked at Genk: Juergen Klopp

Premier League leaders Liverpool head to Old Trafford on Sunday to face Manchester United and rarely have the odds been so in favour of an away win.

Liverpool have won just five times at United in the Premier League era and the Red Devils have won the fixture 16 times, but the gulf in quality between the sides has widened significantly in recent years.

While Juergen Klopp's side has a 100 per cent&nbsp;record in the Premier League, United have just two league wins this season and after their 1-0 defeat by Newcastle United the international break, they are down in 12th place, 15 points behind their arch-rivals.

To add to their problems, United look set to be without goalkeeper David De Gea who picked up a groin injury on international duty with Spain.

"David needs a scan. I think he'll be out. It certainly looked like it anyway...so it's just one of those things," said manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Argentine Sergio Romero is expected to stand in for De Gea and can expect a busy time against Klopp's potent attack.

French midfielder Paul Pogba has not yet recovered fully from his ankle injury but there is better news on the fitness of forward Anthony Martial and full-backs Luke Shaw and Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

"I can't tell you 100 per cent (who) is going to be fit as something might happen," said Solskjaer.

"But hopefully Aaron and Anthony will last the training this week and be available for selection. If it's for half a game or 30 minutes I don't know but let's see where they're at," he said.

United's Spanish midfielder Juan Mata believes the clash with their old rivals offers an opportunity to kick-start the season.

"We have a great chance to change the dynamic and we are all very motivated to take the win. We are United, we are playing at home and we will give everything to be able to take the victory that our fans deserve in such a special game," Mata said.

Champions Manchester City faces a tricky trip to Selhurst Park to face a Crystal Palace team who beat them at the Etihad in January.

City are eight points adrift of Liverpool. Palace sits just two points behind City in the sixth position after an impressive start to the season, but this fixture is the first of a straight run of five against sides directly above them.

Tottenham Hotspur, beaten 3-0 at Brighton &amp; Hove Albion last time out, will look to bounce back against winless bottom club Watford.

Fourth-placed Leicester City host Burnley who are seventh and Frank Lampard's improving Chelsea entertain Newcastle on Saturday.

Third-placed Arsenal visits Sheffield United on Monday.

Premier League leaders Liverpool head to Old Trafford on Sunday to face Manchester United and rarely have the odds been so in favour of an away win. Liverpool have won just five times at United in the Premier League era and the Red Devils have won the fixture 16 times, but the gulf in quality between the sides has widened significantly in recent years.

Premier League leaders Liverpool head to Old Trafford on Sunday to face Manchester United and rarely have the odds been so in favour of an away win. Liverpool have won just five times at United in the Premier League era and the Red Devils have won the fixture 16 times, but the gulf in quality between the sides has widened significantly in recent years. While Juergen Klopp's side has a 100 per cent record in the Premier League, United have just two league wins this season and after their 1-0 defeat by Newcastle United the international break, they are down in 12th place, 15 points behind their arch-rivals. To add to their problems, United look set to be without goalkeeper David De Gea who picked up a groin injury on international duty with Spain. "David needs a scan. I think he'll be out. It certainly looked like it anyway...so it's just one of those things," said manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Argentine Sergio Romero is expected to stand in for De Gea and can expect a busy time against Klopp's potent attack. French midfielder Paul Pogba has not yet recovered fully from his ankle injury but there is better news on the fitness of forward Anthony Martial and full-backs Luke Shaw and Aaron Wan-Bissaka. "I can't tell you 100 per cent (who) is going to be fit as something might happen," said Solskjaer. "But hopefully Aaron and Anthony will last the training this week and be available for selection. If it's for half a game or 30 minutes I don't know but let's see where they're at," he said. United's Spanish midfielder Juan Mata believes the clash with their old rivals offers an opportunity to kick-start the season. "We have a great chance to change the dynamic and we are all very motivated to take the win. We are United, we are playing at home and we will give everything to be able to take the victory that our fans deserve in such a special game," Mata said. Champions Manchester City faces a tricky trip to Selhurst Park to face a Crystal Palace team who beat them at the Etihad in January. City are eight points adrift of Liverpool. Palace sits just two points behind City in the sixth position after an impressive start to the season, but this fixture is the first of a straight run of five against sides directly above them. Tottenham Hotspur, beaten 3-0 at Brighton & Hove Albion last time out, will look to bounce back against winless bottom club Watford. Fourth-placed Leicester City host Burnley who are seventh and Frank Lampard's improving Chelsea entertain Newcastle on Saturday. Third-placed Arsenal visits Sheffield United on Monday.

Liverpool head to United with widest gulf in years

Chelsea's youthful new-look squad reminds Juergen Klopp of his Bundesliga-winning former Borussia Dortmund team, the Liverpool manager said on Friday.

With Chelsea operating under a transfer ban, manager Frank Lampard has turned to the young players in their ranks and the policy has come good so far with all their goalscorers this season being academy players, such as Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount.

Klopp won two league titles and a domestic cup in Germany between 2010 and 2012 with a young squad and the 52-year-old saw similarities in Lampard's side, saying the transfer ban has not really affected Chelsea thanks to their youth policy.

"It's a really exciting team. It reminds me a little bit of my team at Dortmund years back when they were really young, maybe even younger than this team at Chelsea," Klopp told reporters ahead of Sunday's trip to Stamford Bridge.

"People were always talking about how young they are but they only played because they were good. They didn't play because they were that young.

"If there was one club in the world who a transfer ban didn't hit that bad, it was probably Chelsea because of their policy of the last few years. They had players on loan who have come back."

Although new recruit Christian Pulisic is yet to hit the ground running for Chelsea, Klopp said their academy players have stepped up with the support of the experienced players in the squad.

"They brought in Christian Pulisic in the summer, I'm not sure about the money but for around 60 million pounds ($75 million), and all of the players around him now have the same value," Klopp added.

"Tammy Abraham is now a 60 million pound player, Mason Mount is for sure a 60 million pound player, if not more, (Callum) Hudson-Odoi was that already... (N'Golo) Kante, who looks like he could play for the next 20 years.

"They have Mateo Kovacic, Ross Barkley and then all the experienced guys around them -- Pedro, Willian, Olivier Giroud and on the bench Michy Batshuayi."

Klopp confirmed midfielder Naby Keita was back training with the first team. Striker Divock Origi is unlikely to play on Sunday while Alisson is making progress in his recovery from a calf injury.

"(Alisson is) not in team training yet and we take it day by day," Klopp said. "We will see, too early to say. Medical department will tell me."

Chelsea's youthful new-look squad reminds Juergen Klopp of his Bundesliga-winning former Borussia Dortmund team, the Liverpool manager said on Friday. With Chelsea operating under a transfer ban, manager Frank Lampard has turned to the young players in their ranks and the policy has come good so far with all their goalscorers this season being academy players, such as Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount.

Chelsea's youthful new-look squad reminds Juergen Klopp of his Bundesliga-winning former Borussia Dortmund team, the Liverpool manager said on Friday. With Chelsea operating under a transfer ban, manager Frank Lampard has turned to the young players in their ranks and the policy has come good so far with all their goalscorers this season being academy players, such as Tammy Abraham and Mason Mount. Klopp won two league titles and a domestic cup in Germany between 2010 and 2012 with a young squad and the 52-year-old saw similarities in Lampard's side, saying the transfer ban has not really affected Chelsea thanks to their youth policy. "It's a really exciting team. It reminds me a little bit of my team at Dortmund years back when they were really young, maybe even younger than this team at Chelsea," Klopp told reporters ahead of Sunday's trip to Stamford Bridge. "People were always talking about how young they are but they only played because they were good. They didn't play because they were that young. "If there was one club in the world who a transfer ban didn't hit that bad, it was probably Chelsea because of their policy of the last few years. They had players on loan who have come back." Although new recruit Christian Pulisic is yet to hit the ground running for Chelsea, Klopp said their academy players have stepped up with the support of the experienced players in the squad. "They brought in Christian Pulisic in the summer, I'm not sure about the money but for around 60 million pounds ($75 million), and all of the players around him now have the same value," Klopp added. "Tammy Abraham is now a 60 million pound player, Mason Mount is for sure a 60 million pound player, if not more, (Callum) Hudson-Odoi was that already... (N'Golo) Kante, who looks like he could play for the next 20 years. "They have Mateo Kovacic, Ross Barkley and then all the experienced guys around them -- Pedro, Willian, Olivier Giroud and on the bench Michy Batshuayi." Klopp confirmed midfielder Naby Keita was back training with the first team. Striker Divock Origi is unlikely to play on Sunday while Alisson is making progress in his recovery from a calf injury. "(Alisson is) not in team training yet and we take it day by day," Klopp said. "We will see, too early to say. Medical department will tell me."

Frank Lampard's Chelsea reminds Klopp of his young Dortmund team

Juergen Klopp was frustrated by Liverpool’s poor finishing after his side began their Champions League title defence with a 2-0 defeat away to Napoli, who scored two late goals at the Stadio San Paolo on Tuesday.

Dries Mertens scored from the penalty spot with eight minutes remaining after Andy Robertson tripped Jose Callejon inside the box and Napoli substitute Fernando Llorente added a second in stoppage time to put the result beyond doubt.

Klopp's side became the first competition winners to lose the opening game of their Champions League defence since AC Milan were defeated by Ajax Amsterdam in 1994 and the German was concerned by his players' wastefulness.

"It should hurt because there were opportunities for us,” he told BT Sport.

“It was an open game with a lot of counter-attacks, but we didn't finish them off and that is a problem. In the second half, it was a wild game, they were running and we were running."

Klopp was also unhappy about the penalty awarded to the home side after Robertson was adjudged to have fouled Callejon.

"I don't think it's a penalty,” he said. “What can I say, for me, it is clear and obvious no penalty. He jumps before any contact, we can't change that.”

Napoli's Hirving Lozano headed in from close range early on but the goal was correctly ruled out for offside, before Sadio Mane forced home keeper Alex Meret into a save and Roberto Firmino flashed a header wide before the break.

Liverpool keeper Adrian denied Mertens with a superb reaction stop early in the second half before Meret dived to direct Mohamed Salah's effort wide.

But the late double from Mertens and Llorente secured the three points for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, who also beat Liverpool at home at the same stage last season.

“We worked hard to defend and attack as a unit, because at times football means adapting to situations and I think we did it well,” Ancelotti told Sky Sport Italia.

“We felt confident on the second goal, it was near the end and we were a goal up. You can press high at times, not at others, it’s about maintaining your identity and also being able to do everything. I liked our quality, but also how we played ugly when we needed to.”

In the other Group E game, Salzburg made an impressive start with a 6-2 victory at home to Genk.

Erling Haaland scored a first-half hat-trick for the Austrian champions, becoming the third-youngest player to net a Champions League treble at the age of 19 years and 58 days, behind Raul (18y 113d) and Wayne Rooney (18y 340d).

Juergen Klopp was frustrated by Liverpool’s poor finishing after his side began their Champions League title defence with a 2-0 defeat away to Napoli, who scored two late goals at the Stadio San Paolo on Tuesday.

Juergen Klopp was frustrated by Liverpool’s poor finishing after his side began their Champions League title defence with a 2-0 defeat away to Napoli, who scored two late goals at the Stadio San Paolo on Tuesday. Dries Mertens scored from the penalty spot with eight minutes remaining after Andy Robertson tripped Jose Callejon inside the box and Napoli substitute Fernando Llorente added a second in stoppage time to put the result beyond doubt. Klopp's side became the first competition winners to lose the opening game of their Champions League defence since AC Milan were defeated by Ajax Amsterdam in 1994 and the German was concerned by his players' wastefulness. "It should hurt because there were opportunities for us,” he told BT Sport. “It was an open game with a lot of counter-attacks, but we didn't finish them off and that is a problem. In the second half, it was a wild game, they were running and we were running." Klopp was also unhappy about the penalty awarded to the home side after Robertson was adjudged to have fouled Callejon. "I don't think it's a penalty,” he said. “What can I say, for me, it is clear and obvious no penalty. He jumps before any contact, we can't change that.” Napoli's Hirving Lozano headed in from close range early on but the goal was correctly ruled out for offside, before Sadio Mane forced home keeper Alex Meret into a save and Roberto Firmino flashed a header wide before the break. Liverpool keeper Adrian denied Mertens with a superb reaction stop early in the second half before Meret dived to direct Mohamed Salah's effort wide. But the late double from Mertens and Llorente secured the three points for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, who also beat Liverpool at home at the same stage last season. “We worked hard to defend and attack as a unit, because at times football means adapting to situations and I think we did it well,” Ancelotti told Sky Sport Italia. “We felt confident on the second goal, it was near the end and we were a goal up. You can press high at times, not at others, it’s about maintaining your identity and also being able to do everything. I liked our quality, but also how we played ugly when we needed to.” In the other Group E game, Salzburg made an impressive start with a 6-2 victory at home to Genk. Erling Haaland scored a first-half hat-trick for the Austrian champions, becoming the third-youngest player to net a Champions League treble at the age of 19 years and 58 days, behind Raul (18y 113d) and Wayne Rooney (18y 340d).

Champions League: Napoli stun holders Liverpool

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp laughed off stand-in goalkeeper Adrian's mistake in Saturday's 2-1 Premier League victory over Southampton, joking that the howler was a "goalie thing" at the Merseyside club.

After forwards Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino put Liverpool 2-0 ahead, new signing Adrian gifted Southampton a lifeline with a poor clearance that rebounded off Danny Ings and into the net.

But Klopp made light of the incident, comparing it to an error by his first-choice goalkeeper Alisson during a win over Leicester City last season.

Asked by reporters if he had spoken to Adrian, Klopp said: "Yes: 'you finally arrived, welcome.'

"Ali did the same... it's a goalie thing at Liverpool, no problem with that as long as we win the games. All good."

Adrian, who was deployed after Allisson suffered a long-term injury against Norwich, had been passed fit for the match after sustaining a freak injury while celebrating their midweek Super Cup victory over Chelsea.

"Adrian had a swollen ankle and we played too many balls back to him in that period. I was happy with everything he did, all the saves, all that stuff," Klopp added.

"The other players have to then feel more the responsibility for the build-up and cannot give all the balls back to him and hope the painkillers still help.

"I don't think the goal was because of that, but a few other balls were. He's completely good with his feet."

Early pace-setters Liverpool next host Arsenal on Aug. 24.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp laughed off stand-in goalkeeper Adrian's mistake in Saturday's 2-1 Premier League victory over Southampton, joking that the howler was a "goalie thing" at the Merseyside club.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp laughed off stand-in goalkeeper Adrian's mistake in Saturday's 2-1 Premier League victory over Southampton, joking that the howler was a "goalie thing" at the Merseyside club. After forwards Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino put Liverpool 2-0 ahead, new signing Adrian gifted Southampton a lifeline with a poor clearance that rebounded off Danny Ings and into the net. But Klopp made light of the incident, comparing it to an error by his first-choice goalkeeper Alisson during a win over Leicester City last season. Asked by reporters if he had spoken to Adrian, Klopp said: "Yes: 'you finally arrived, welcome.' "Ali did the same... it's a goalie thing at Liverpool, no problem with that as long as we win the games. All good." Adrian, who was deployed after Allisson suffered a long-term injury against Norwich, had been passed fit for the match after sustaining a freak injury while celebrating their midweek Super Cup victory over Chelsea. "Adrian had a swollen ankle and we played too many balls back to him in that period. I was happy with everything he did, all the saves, all that stuff," Klopp added. "The other players have to then feel more the responsibility for the build-up and cannot give all the balls back to him and hope the painkillers still help. "I don't think the goal was because of that, but a few other balls were. He's completely good with his feet." Early pace-setters Liverpool next host Arsenal on Aug. 24.

Liverpool's Klopp makes light of Adrian howler

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp has said Brazilian striker Roberto Firmino should be fit to face Tottenham Hotspur in Saturday's Champions League final in Madrid. Firmino missed Liverpool's memorable semi-final win over Barcelona and the final game of the Premier League season against Wolverhampton Wanderers with a muscle strain but he has responded well to his return to training said, Klopp.

Robert Firmino 'will be fine' for final says Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/liverpool-stun-messis-barcelona-to-enter-champions-league-final-216859">4-0 win over Barcelona</a> on Tuesday was "unbelievable" and paid tribute to the belief his players had shown to secure the shock 4-3 aggregate win and a place in the Champions League final.

The German was clearly swept up in the emotion at the end of the game as a delirious Anfield crowd sang the club's anthem "You'll never walk alone" with the players lined up in front of the Kop.

"When I saw the boys after the game and saw the tears in their eyes, that’s football and they are professionals and it’s still like this," said Klopp.

"This club touches you like crazy, it’s like you feel much more than others in these moments. It’s really great, I love it.

"It’s a special night, very special. Winning against Barcelona is obviously one of the most difficult things in the world of football. Winning against Barcelona when you are actually 3-0 down makes it not easier.

"We had to score four goals and (were) not allowed to concede. That made it, again, more difficult. So we didn’t really think about it, to be 100 per cent honest.

"We tried to build on the performance at Barcelona, all the good things we did there, and tried to win the game step by step.

"We have the ball, we attack with whatever we have -- they have the ball, we defend with whatever we have. And that made it a really special game. It was really difficult to play against us tonight."

Liverpool took a seventh minute lead through Divock Origi and then struck twice after the break courtesy of substitute Georginio Wijnaldum before Origi got the crucial fourth goal.

Throughout the match, Liverpool played with pulsating energy and gritty determination, while still being able to carve open a trembling Barcelona defence.

"What the boys did -- this mix, again, of big heart and football skills -- is unbelievable," Klopp added.

"But ... we didn’t learn it in the first game, we knew it before already.

"I said to the boys before the game, 'I don’t think it’s possible but because it’s you I think we have a chance' -- is because they are really mentality giants.

"It’s unbelievable after the season we played, the games we had, the injuries we have now in this moment."

The German said few would have believed his team could get the result the needed to reach the final, where they will play Ajax Amsterdam or Tottenham Hotspur.

"If you go out there and ask who bet a penny on us, I don’t think you’ll find a lot of people. And then going out there and putting (in) a performance like this on the pitch is unbelievable," he said.

"I’m really proud to be the manager of this team. What they did tonight is so special and I will remember it forever. I don’t know if it happened before and I don’t know if it can happen again. The boys did it and it was brilliant."

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said the 4-0 win over Barcelona on Tuesday was "unbelievable" and paid tribute to the belief his players had shown to secure the shock 4-3 aggregate win and a place in the Champions League final.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said the 4-0 win over Barcelona on Tuesday was "unbelievable" and paid tribute to the belief his players had shown to secure the shock 4-3 aggregate win and a place in the Champions League final. The German was clearly swept up in the emotion at the end of the game as a delirious Anfield crowd sang the club's anthem "You'll never walk alone" with the players lined up in front of the Kop. "When I saw the boys after the game and saw the tears in their eyes, that’s football and they are professionals and it’s still like this," said Klopp. "This club touches you like crazy, it’s like you feel much more than others in these moments. It’s really great, I love it. "It’s a special night, very special. Winning against Barcelona is obviously one of the most difficult things in the world of football. Winning against Barcelona when you are actually 3-0 down makes it not easier. "We had to score four goals and (were) not allowed to concede. That made it, again, more difficult. So we didn’t really think about it, to be 100 per cent honest. "We tried to build on the performance at Barcelona, all the good things we did there, and tried to win the game step by step. "We have the ball, we attack with whatever we have -- they have the ball, we defend with whatever we have. And that made it a really special game. It was really difficult to play against us tonight." Liverpool took a seventh minute lead through Divock Origi and then struck twice after the break courtesy of substitute Georginio Wijnaldum before Origi got the crucial fourth goal. Throughout the match, Liverpool played with pulsating energy and gritty determination, while still being able to carve open a trembling Barcelona defence. "What the boys did -- this mix, again, of big heart and football skills -- is unbelievable," Klopp added. "But ... we didn’t learn it in the first game, we knew it before already. "I said to the boys before the game, 'I don’t think it’s possible but because it’s you I think we have a chance' -- is because they are really mentality giants. "It’s unbelievable after the season we played, the games we had, the injuries we have now in this moment." The German said few would have believed his team could get the result the needed to reach the final, where they will play Ajax Amsterdam or Tottenham Hotspur. "If you go out there and ask who bet a penny on us, I don’t think you’ll find a lot of people. And then going out there and putting (in) a performance like this on the pitch is unbelievable," he said. "I’m really proud to be the manager of this team. What they did tonight is so special and I will remember it forever. I don’t know if it happened before and I don’t know if it can happen again. The boys did it and it was brilliant."

Emotional Juergen Klopp hails 'unbelievable' triumph over Barcelona

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said that Barcelona great Lionel Messi is the best out of the players he has seen in his career but his side have a chance against the Spanish giants in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final tie on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Klopp also referred to the English Premier League where the second-placed Liverpool are in a close contest with their rivals Manchester City for the league title.&nbsp;

On the eve of the UCL clash, Klopp said, "Messi would be for me – as a player I saw – the number one, 100 per cent, that's me."&nbsp;

"Cristiano Ronaldo is for sure in that as well and all the rest we have to see. I saw… I have coached a few really good players, but they didn't finish their careers so we have to… they still have time to develop."&nbsp;

"My father always said it's Pele, but I didn't see Pele live – I am too young for that. But there are lot of good players around, but that's my ranking – Leo (Messi) is, for me, the best," he added.&nbsp;

Back in August Messi, in his first public address as Barcelona captain, told a packed stadium before a friendly against Boca Juniors he and the players had made it their ambition to win the trophy for the sixth time.&nbsp;

"We promise that this season we will do all we can to bring that beautiful trophy back to the Camp Nou,"&nbsp;Messi to the Barca fans.&nbsp;

But Klopp said that it's not only about Messi, but there are also other 10 game changers as well.&nbsp;

"It's not only about Messi but of course it's about him as well,"&nbsp;Klopp&nbsp;said.&nbsp;

"Can we concentrate on Messi? We should in a lot of moments but if we only concentrate on him there are 10 other world-class players who can decide the game as well.&nbsp;

"Messi said before the season, 'we want to bring back that cup'. That sounds like a threat to me. Now we did it, now we are here and all I can say is we want to go to the final as well," Klopp added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said that Barcelona great Lionel Messi is the best out of the players he has seen in his career but his side have a chance against the Spanish giants in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final tie on Wednesday.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp said that Barcelona great Lionel Messi is the best out of the players he has seen in his career but his side have a chance against the Spanish giants in the first leg of their UEFA Champions League semi-final tie on Wednesday. Klopp also referred to the English Premier League where the second-placed Liverpool are in a close contest with their rivals Manchester City for the league title. On the eve of the UCL clash, Klopp said, "Messi would be for me – as a player I saw – the number one, 100 per cent, that's me." "Cristiano Ronaldo is for sure in that as well and all the rest we have to see. I saw… I have coached a few really good players, but they didn't finish their careers so we have to… they still have time to develop." "My father always said it's Pele, but I didn't see Pele live – I am too young for that. But there are lot of good players around, but that's my ranking – Leo (Messi) is, for me, the best," he added. Back in August Messi, in his first public address as Barcelona captain, told a packed stadium before a friendly against Boca Juniors he and the players had made it their ambition to win the trophy for the sixth time. "We promise that this season we will do all we can to bring that beautiful trophy back to the Camp Nou," Messi to the Barca fans. But Klopp said that it's not only about Messi, but there are also other 10 game changers as well. "It's not only about Messi but of course it's about him as well," Klopp said. "Can we concentrate on Messi? We should in a lot of moments but if we only concentrate on him there are 10 other world-class players who can decide the game as well. "Messi said before the season, 'we want to bring back that cup'. That sounds like a threat to me. Now we did it, now we are here and all I can say is we want to go to the final as well," Klopp added.

Messi 'best player ever' but we have a chance, says Klopp ahead of UCL tie

Winter returned to Anfield on Friday but while the temperature dropped, the standards of Juergen Klopp's side certainly did not as Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah both struck twice in a 5-0 thrashing of relegated Huddersfield Town.

Liverpool kept the pressure up on Premier League title rivals Manchester City, moving to the summit on 91 points, two more than City, but Pep Guardiola's side will regain top spot with a win at Burnley on Sunday.

Despite the wind, rain and freezing temperature, Liverpool had little trouble collecting their seventh league win in a row and with a trip to Newcastle United and home game against Wolverhampton Wanderers to come, Juergen Klopp's side could well keep that streak going until the end of the season.

Ninety one points was enough to win 20 of the 27 Premier League titles and Klopp's side could end the campaign with just a solitary league defeat to go with several other records -- but none of that will count for much if Pep Guardiola's side do not drop points in their three remaining matches.

"Ninety one points. Wow, that's crazy. It's only possible because the boys play like they do, the attitude they have," Klopp said.

"You cannot ask for luck or destiny, you have to work for it. We said we want to write our own history, that's what we're doing. The boys are outstanding," he added.

Liverpool, who face Barcelona in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final on Wednesday, were without forward Roberto Firmino who was rested due to a slight muscle strain.

But Klopp's side do not lack for firepower even without their Brazilian striker.

Salah and Mane now have 21 and 20 goals each this season -- making them the top two scorers in the Premier League.

Early Goal

It took 14 seconds for Liverpool to go in front with Huddersfield defender Jon Gorenc Stankovic giving the ball away to Salah just outside the box and the Egyptian fed Naby Keita&nbsp;who slotted home off the inside of the post.

Mane headed in the second in the 23rd minute, meeting a trademark Andy Robertson cross from the left after Virgil Van Dijk had started the move with a surge out from the back.

On the stroke of halftime, Salah put the game beyond Huddersfield when he latched on to a long pass forward from Trent Alexander-Arnold and knocked the ball past the advancing Jonas Lossl.

Huddersfield, who opted against massed defence and tried to be positive, started the second half in determined fashion, creating three promising openings, but Liverpool soon took back control.

Mane scored his second and Liverpool's fourth in the 66th minute, heading in a deep cross from Jordan Henderson and he went close to a hat-trick in the 78th minute when he headed a Xherdan Shaqiri cross against the post.

Salah made it 5-0 with a simple close-range tap-in from a low Robertson cross.

"All in all it was great, a really brilliant performance," said Klopp. "Composure and everything that you need was there. So really happy.

"It's obviously an outstanding group of players, who did well against a Huddersfield side who are much better than this result shows. They had proper counter-attacks so we needed to be patient and we scored wonderful goals".

To add to a very positive evening, midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain returned to action as a substitute, his first appearance since suffering a knee injury a year ago.

Winter returned to Anfield on Friday but while the temperature dropped, the standards of Juergen Klopp's side certainly did not as Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah both struck twice in a 5-0 thrashing of relegated Huddersfield Town.

Winter returned to Anfield on Friday but while the temperature dropped, the standards of Juergen Klopp's side certainly did not as Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah both struck twice in a 5-0 thrashing of relegated Huddersfield Town. Liverpool kept the pressure up on Premier League title rivals Manchester City, moving to the summit on 91 points, two more than City, but Pep Guardiola's side will regain top spot with a win at Burnley on Sunday. Despite the wind, rain and freezing temperature, Liverpool had little trouble collecting their seventh league win in a row and with a trip to Newcastle United and home game against Wolverhampton Wanderers to come, Juergen Klopp's side could well keep that streak going until the end of the season. Ninety one points was enough to win 20 of the 27 Premier League titles and Klopp's side could end the campaign with just a solitary league defeat to go with several other records -- but none of that will count for much if Pep Guardiola's side do not drop points in their three remaining matches. "Ninety one points. Wow, that's crazy. It's only possible because the boys play like they do, the attitude they have," Klopp said. "You cannot ask for luck or destiny, you have to work for it. We said we want to write our own history, that's what we're doing. The boys are outstanding," he added. Liverpool, who face Barcelona in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final on Wednesday, were without forward Roberto Firmino who was rested due to a slight muscle strain. But Klopp's side do not lack for firepower even without their Brazilian striker. Salah and Mane now have 21 and 20 goals each this season -- making them the top two scorers in the Premier League. Early Goal It took 14 seconds for Liverpool to go in front with Huddersfield defender Jon Gorenc Stankovic giving the ball away to Salah just outside the box and the Egyptian fed Naby Keita who slotted home off the inside of the post. Mane headed in the second in the 23rd minute, meeting a trademark Andy Robertson cross from the left after Virgil Van Dijk had started the move with a surge out from the back. On the stroke of halftime, Salah put the game beyond Huddersfield when he latched on to a long pass forward from Trent Alexander-Arnold and knocked the ball past the advancing Jonas Lossl. Huddersfield, who opted against massed defence and tried to be positive, started the second half in determined fashion, creating three promising openings, but Liverpool soon took back control. Mane scored his second and Liverpool's fourth in the 66th minute, heading in a deep cross from Jordan Henderson and he went close to a hat-trick in the 78th minute when he headed a Xherdan Shaqiri cross against the post. Salah made it 5-0 with a simple close-range tap-in from a low Robertson cross. "All in all it was great, a really brilliant performance," said Klopp. "Composure and everything that you need was there. So really happy. "It's obviously an outstanding group of players, who did well against a Huddersfield side who are much better than this result shows. They had proper counter-attacks so we needed to be patient and we scored wonderful goals". To add to a very positive evening, midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain returned to action as a substitute, his first appearance since suffering a knee injury a year ago.

Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane send Liverpool top - for now

Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp said he would be disappointed if defender Virgil van Dijk missed out on the Professional Footballers' Association's (PFA) Player of the Year award as he has had an "outstanding season".

Dutchman Van Dijk has transformed Liverpool's defence since joining the club from Southampton in Jan. 2018, and has been key in the Merseyside club keeping 18 clean sheets in the league this season.

The 27-year-old has missed just 35 minutes Premier League action all season as Liverpool edge closer to a first top division title in 29 years.

"Would I feel sad if Van Dijk doesn't win Player of the Year? For him yes, of course," he told reporters.

"He's had an outstanding season. Will he have deserved it? Of course. It was last season when (Manchester City's) Kevin De Bruyne and (Liverpool's) Mo Salah both played unbelievable seasons and Mo won it.

"We were happy about that and not because De Bruyne lost it, because he would have deserved it as well. I think it is the same again in this case."

Van Dijk is one of the six players in the running for the award alongside team mate Sadio Mane, Chelsea's Eden Hazard and Manchester City trio Raheem Sterling, Sergio Aguero and Bernardo Silva.

The winners voted for by the PFA members, will be announced on April 28.

Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp said he would be disappointed if defender Virgil van Dijk missed out on the Professional Footballers' Association's (PFA) Player of the Year award as he has had an "outstanding season".

Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp said he would be disappointed if defender Virgil van Dijk missed out on the Professional Footballers' Association's (PFA) Player of the Year award as he has had an "outstanding season". Dutchman Van Dijk has transformed Liverpool's defence since joining the club from Southampton in Jan. 2018, and has been key in the Merseyside club keeping 18 clean sheets in the league this season. The 27-year-old has missed just 35 minutes Premier League action all season as Liverpool edge closer to a first top division title in 29 years. "Would I feel sad if Van Dijk doesn't win Player of the Year? For him yes, of course," he told reporters. "He's had an outstanding season. Will he have deserved it? Of course. It was last season when (Manchester City's) Kevin De Bruyne and (Liverpool's) Mo Salah both played unbelievable seasons and Mo won it. "We were happy about that and not because De Bruyne lost it, because he would have deserved it as well. I think it is the same again in this case." Van Dijk is one of the six players in the running for the award alongside team mate Sadio Mane, Chelsea's Eden Hazard and Manchester City trio Raheem Sterling, Sergio Aguero and Bernardo Silva. The winners voted for by the PFA members, will be announced on April 28.

'Outstanding' Van Dijk deserves PFA award, says Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp

Liverpool's 5-0 win at Porto last season must not lull them into a false sense of security when they face the same opponents in their Champions League quarter-final second leg, coach Juergen Klopp said on Tuesday.

Klopp, whose side will defend a 2-0 lead from last week's first leg at the Estadio do Dragao on Wednesday, added that last year's match was "really strange".

Liverpool met Porto in the round of 16 last season, drawing the return 0-0 at Anfield after their runaway first-leg win.

"The first goal was really good play but Sadio (Mane) had harder shots that weren’t in. The second goal was great play and (Mohamed) Salah finished it off from the post. And then three counter-attacking goals that were really good," he said.

"I didn’t like the last game. It was really strange... It was really open until we were 2-0 up but you don't remember things like that. But my players aren’t silly, they don’t misunderstand this."

"Porto are a really, really good football team. We have to play at our limit 100 percent," he said, adding that the Portuguese side had won all four Champions League home games this season.

Klopp went on to warn his team about the atmosphere they would face.

"I was here for a derby years and years ago and...yeah...that was loud," he said. "They know how to influence a game and an opponent and we have to be ready for this atmosphere."

Centre back Joe Gomez, who has been sidelined since December after having surgery for a leg fracture, could make his return, Klopp added.

"Joe is getting better and better and better," he said. "Can he play 90 minutes in the Champions League? I am not sure, but no need to think about it. Can he come on and do a great job? Yes, no doubt..."

Liverpool's 5-0 win at Porto last season must not lull them into a false sense of security when they face the same opponents in their Champions League quarter-final second leg, coach Juergen Klopp said on Tuesday.

Liverpool's 5-0 win at Porto last season must not lull them into a false sense of security when they face the same opponents in their Champions League quarter-final second leg, coach Juergen Klopp said on Tuesday. Klopp, whose side will defend a 2-0 lead from last week's first leg at the Estadio do Dragao on Wednesday, added that last year's match was "really strange". Liverpool met Porto in the round of 16 last season, drawing the return 0-0 at Anfield after their runaway first-leg win. "The first goal was really good play but Sadio (Mane) had harder shots that weren’t in. The second goal was great play and (Mohamed) Salah finished it off from the post. And then three counter-attacking goals that were really good," he said. "I didn’t like the last game. It was really strange... It was really open until we were 2-0 up but you don't remember things like that. But my players aren’t silly, they don’t misunderstand this." "Porto are a really, really good football team. We have to play at our limit 100 percent," he said, adding that the Portuguese side had won all four Champions League home games this season. Klopp went on to warn his team about the atmosphere they would face. "I was here for a derby years and years ago and...yeah...that was loud," he said. "They know how to influence a game and an opponent and we have to be ready for this atmosphere." Centre back Joe Gomez, who has been sidelined since December after having surgery for a leg fracture, could make his return, Klopp added. "Joe is getting better and better and better," he said. "Can he play 90 minutes in the Champions League? I am not sure, but no need to think about it. Can he come on and do a great job? Yes, no doubt..."

Don't be fooled by 5-0 win last year, Juergen Klopp warns Liverpool

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said after their 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday that there are "500,000 different ways to win a football game" - and emerging victorious after a 90th-minute winner, even an own goal, is a sweet way to do it.

The Anfield crowd went wild, the German coach was fist-pumping in front of the Kop, Liverpool players hugged each other in delight and beneath it, all was a deep sense of relief as they claimed another three vital Premier League points.

Had the score remained 1-1 the impetus in the title race would have been handed to Manchester City but a bit of luck, as the ball rolled over the line off Toby Alderweireld's shins, meant Liverpool ended the weekend on top and on a high.

For Klopp that kind of victory is psychologically even more of a boost then a comfortable win.

"One hundred per cent, of course. If you win today 5-0 - I didn’t see that as possible, but if - then it can lead you on the wrong path, that’s how it is. We are all human beings," he said.

Liverpool have 79 points with Manchester City, who won at Fulham on Saturday, on 77 points but with a game in hand.

It was by no means a sparkling performance from Klopp's team against Spurs and there were few moments of class or the kind of exhilaration they produced last season but, as the manager acknowledged, at this stage, it is simply about the points.

"It feels like we always have to apologise a little bit that because of the football last season and stuff like that because people always want the 100 per cent package.

"We had to find a way to win football games much more often than in the past. So until now it kind of worked. It’s all good," Klopp added.

"The boys work hard and if we would be first in the table after the last matchday it would be a championship of will, that’s how it is."

While the stakes were high, there was no sign of the nerves becoming too much for Liverpool or their demanding supporters.

"We want it, of course, and it’s not only that. We get used to the situation, step-by-step," said Klopp.

"In the stadium today when it was 1-1, in the three-and-a-half years that I am here that was the best performance of the Liverpool crowd after an equaliser.

"I am really, really happy that attitude again today, it’s brilliant," added the German.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said after their 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday that there are "500,000 different ways to win a football game" - and emerging victorious after a 90th-minute winner, even an own goal, is a sweet way to do it.

Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp said after their 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday that there are "500,000 different ways to win a football game" - and emerging victorious after a 90th-minute winner, even an own goal, is a sweet way to do it. The Anfield crowd went wild, the German coach was fist-pumping in front of the Kop, Liverpool players hugged each other in delight and beneath it, all was a deep sense of relief as they claimed another three vital Premier League points. Had the score remained 1-1 the impetus in the title race would have been handed to Manchester City but a bit of luck, as the ball rolled over the line off Toby Alderweireld's shins, meant Liverpool ended the weekend on top and on a high. For Klopp that kind of victory is psychologically even more of a boost then a comfortable win. "One hundred per cent, of course. If you win today 5-0 - I didn’t see that as possible, but if - then it can lead you on the wrong path, that’s how it is. We are all human beings," he said. Liverpool have 79 points with Manchester City, who won at Fulham on Saturday, on 77 points but with a game in hand. It was by no means a sparkling performance from Klopp's team against Spurs and there were few moments of class or the kind of exhilaration they produced last season but, as the manager acknowledged, at this stage, it is simply about the points. "It feels like we always have to apologise a little bit that because of the football last season and stuff like that because people always want the 100 per cent package. "We had to find a way to win football games much more often than in the past. So until now it kind of worked. It’s all good," Klopp added. "The boys work hard and if we would be first in the table after the last matchday it would be a championship of will, that’s how it is." While the stakes were high, there was no sign of the nerves becoming too much for Liverpool or their demanding supporters. "We want it, of course, and it’s not only that. We get used to the situation, step-by-step," said Klopp. "In the stadium today when it was 1-1, in the three-and-a-half years that I am here that was the best performance of the Liverpool crowd after an equaliser. "I am really, really happy that attitude again today, it’s brilliant," added the German.

EPL: Title race is a battle of wills, says Liverpool's manager Klopp

Liverpool&nbsp;usurped Manchester City to take top spot in the Premier League but needed a James Milner penalty nine minutes from time to see off lowly Fulham 2-1 at Craven Cottage on Sunday.

The on-form Sadio Mane put the visitors in front midway through the first half, but a rare defensive mix-up between Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker allowed Ryan Babel to give his former club a huge scare 16 minutes from time.

Fulham's awful defending all season is the reason they are heading back to the Championship after just one season back in the top flight, and the hosts gave Jurgen Klopp's men a much-needed gift when goalkeeper Sergio Rico bundled over Mane and Milner secured all three points from the spot.

Liverpool&nbsp;now hold a two-point lead over City, but the champions have a game in hand.

"Average game, sensational result," said Klopp of his side's performance.

"City don't look like they will drop a lot of points, so we have to win and win and win. That's our job to do."

Liverpool&nbsp;completed a clean sweep of four English sides into the quarter-finals of the Champions League with a highly impressive 3-1 win at Bayern Munich on Wednesday.

But they nearly suffered a very costly European hangover against a Fulham side still 13 points adrift of safety.

"We had to run a lot in a week where we ran a lot," added Klopp to justify an at times lacklustre display at such a pivotal stage of the season.

Most of the visitors' attacking threat came down their left side through Mane and the Senegalese proved the source of the breakthrough on 26 minutes.

Mane scored twice in Munich in midweek and took his hot streak to 11 goals in 11 games with a simple finish after exchanging passes with Roberto Firmino.

No excuses

Liverpool&nbsp;started the second half with greater intent to try and put the game to bed.

Andy Robertson was the provider as Georginio Wijnaldum headed a good opportunity over at the far post before Rico was called into action to deny Van Dijk.

However, as a torrential rain shower swept over the banks of the Thames to make playing conditions hazardous,&nbsp;Liverpool's slender lead proved a dangerous one.

Floyd Ayite was rightly flagged offside as he headed a deflected shot past Alisson before the Brazilian number one got down well to save from Andre Zambo Anguissa.

Mane was inches away from securing the points and doubling his tally for the day with a deft header from a corner that clipped the top of the crossbar.

Disaster seemed to have struck for&nbsp;Liverpool&nbsp;when Van Dijk's header back towards Alisson didn't have enough purchase and Babel stepped in with the break of the ball to tap into an empty net.

"I am not giving excuses. I should have handled it better," admitted Van Dijk.&nbsp;

However, the league leaders showed why they are in the running to end a 29-year title drought to get a vital three points with the help of some erratic goalkeeping from Rico.

"I saw the reaction of my players and I'm really pleased with that," added Klopp. "After the equaliser we were much clearer than before the equaliser."

Mohamed Salah's goal drought continued as the Egyptian has scored just once now in his last 10 games, but it was his shot that Rico spilled before the Spaniard unnecessarily pulled down Mane.

Milner took responsibility instead of Salah from the penalty spot and calmly sent Rico the wrong way to restore&nbsp;Liverpool's lead, which this time they never looked like letting go.

Liverpool usurped Manchester City to take top spot in the Premier League but needed a James Milner penalty nine minutes from time to see off lowly Fulham 2-1 at Craven Cottage on Sunday.

Liverpool usurped Manchester City to take top spot in the Premier League but needed a James Milner penalty nine minutes from time to see off lowly Fulham 2-1 at Craven Cottage on Sunday. The on-form Sadio Mane put the visitors in front midway through the first half, but a rare defensive mix-up between Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker allowed Ryan Babel to give his former club a huge scare 16 minutes from time. Fulham's awful defending all season is the reason they are heading back to the Championship after just one season back in the top flight, and the hosts gave Jurgen Klopp's men a much-needed gift when goalkeeper Sergio Rico bundled over Mane and Milner secured all three points from the spot. Liverpool now hold a two-point lead over City, but the champions have a game in hand. "Average game, sensational result," said Klopp of his side's performance. "City don't look like they will drop a lot of points, so we have to win and win and win. That's our job to do." Liverpool completed a clean sweep of four English sides into the quarter-finals of the Champions League with a highly impressive 3-1 win at Bayern Munich on Wednesday. But they nearly suffered a very costly European hangover against a Fulham side still 13 points adrift of safety. "We had to run a lot in a week where we ran a lot," added Klopp to justify an at times lacklustre display at such a pivotal stage of the season. Most of the visitors' attacking threat came down their left side through Mane and the Senegalese proved the source of the breakthrough on 26 minutes. Mane scored twice in Munich in midweek and took his hot streak to 11 goals in 11 games with a simple finish after exchanging passes with Roberto Firmino. No excuses Liverpool started the second half with greater intent to try and put the game to bed. Andy Robertson was the provider as Georginio Wijnaldum headed a good opportunity over at the far post before Rico was called into action to deny Van Dijk. However, as a torrential rain shower swept over the banks of the Thames to make playing conditions hazardous, Liverpool's slender lead proved a dangerous one. Floyd Ayite was rightly flagged offside as he headed a deflected shot past Alisson before the Brazilian number one got down well to save from Andre Zambo Anguissa. Mane was inches away from securing the points and doubling his tally for the day with a deft header from a corner that clipped the top of the crossbar. Disaster seemed to have struck for Liverpool when Van Dijk's header back towards Alisson didn't have enough purchase and Babel stepped in with the break of the ball to tap into an empty net. "I am not giving excuses. I should have handled it better," admitted Van Dijk. However, the league leaders showed why they are in the running to end a 29-year title drought to get a vital three points with the help of some erratic goalkeeping from Rico. "I saw the reaction of my players and I'm really pleased with that," added Klopp. "After the equaliser we were much clearer than before the equaliser." Mohamed Salah's goal drought continued as the Egyptian has scored just once now in his last 10 games, but it was his shot that Rico spilled before the Spaniard unnecessarily pulled down Mane. Milner took responsibility instead of Salah from the penalty spot and calmly sent Rico the wrong way to restore Liverpool's lead, which this time they never looked like letting go.

Liverpool survive Fulham scare to go top of Premier League

Liverpool showed they are back as one of European football's powerhouses after dispatching <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-liverpool-outplay-bayern-munich-to-reach-quarter-finals-203183">Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard</a> on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said.

Liverpool, five-times European champions and last season's Champions League runners-up, eased past the Bavarians and into the quarter-finals with two goals from Sadio Mane and one from Virgil van Dijk after a goalless first leg at Anfield.

In a dominant performance, Liverpool shrugged off an early ankle injury to captain Jordan Henderson and kept their cool after Bayern's equaliser through Joel Matip's own goal late in the first half.

Liverpool then scored with headers from Van Dijk in the 69th minute and Mane in the 84th to book their spot in the last eight.

"It is an important (win) for different reasons. Important money-wise but also confidence-wise," Klopp told reporters.

"Liverpool's self-awareness now must be 'we are back. We are back on the landscape. Back in big football'.

"That was part of the plan when we started the project," Klopp said. "We still have space for improvement but beating Bayern here is a big one."

Liverpool, who have slipped behind Manchester City in the Premier League title race in recent weeks, had lost all their away games in the Champions League competition this season prior to Wednesday.

Yet their victory saw them join Manchester City and Manchester United as well as Tottenham Hotspur in the last eight while Germany will be without a quarter-finalist for the first time in 11 years.

"We scored a wonderful goal in the first half, outstanding," Klopp said. "We conceded one, but everyone could see it was possible (for us to win). The second half I was really happy by how mature the performance was, how strong we looked, how good we defended.

"It's a big step for us. We have set a mark that this wonderful club is really at the top of the landscape of European football."

"I am really proud of the boys because it is a massive achievement. We are on a good way and I like what the boys did tonight."

Liverpool showed they are back as one of European football's powerhouses after dispatching Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said.

Liverpool showed they are back as one of European football's powerhouses after dispatching Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said. Liverpool, five-times European champions and last season's Champions League runners-up, eased past the Bavarians and into the quarter-finals with two goals from Sadio Mane and one from Virgil van Dijk after a goalless first leg at Anfield. In a dominant performance, Liverpool shrugged off an early ankle injury to captain Jordan Henderson and kept their cool after Bayern's equaliser through Joel Matip's own goal late in the first half. Liverpool then scored with headers from Van Dijk in the 69th minute and Mane in the 84th to book their spot in the last eight. "It is an important (win) for different reasons. Important money-wise but also confidence-wise," Klopp told reporters. "Liverpool's self-awareness now must be 'we are back. We are back on the landscape. Back in big football'. "That was part of the plan when we started the project," Klopp said. "We still have space for improvement but beating Bayern here is a big one." Liverpool, who have slipped behind Manchester City in the Premier League title race in recent weeks, had lost all their away games in the Champions League competition this season prior to Wednesday. Yet their victory saw them join Manchester City and Manchester United as well as Tottenham Hotspur in the last eight while Germany will be without a quarter-finalist for the first time in 11 years. "We scored a wonderful goal in the first half, outstanding," Klopp said. "We conceded one, but everyone could see it was possible (for us to win). The second half I was really happy by how mature the performance was, how strong we looked, how good we defended. "It's a big step for us. We have set a mark that this wonderful club is really at the top of the landscape of European football." "I am really proud of the boys because it is a massive achievement. We are on a good way and I like what the boys did tonight."

Liverpool are back on the big stage with Bayern Munich win, says Juergen Klopp

Liverpool showed they are back as one of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-cristiano-ronaldos-hat-trick-against-atletico-madrid-powers-juventus-into-quarter-finals-202975"> European football's powerhouses</a> after dispatching Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said.

Liverpool, five-times European champions and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-seven-up-for-manchester-city-as-they-demolish-schalke-203025">last season's Champions League</a> runners-up, eased past the Bavarians and into the quarter-finals with two goals from Sadio Mane and one from Virgil van Dijk after a goalless first leg at Anfield.

In a dominant performance, Liverpool shrugged off an early ankle injury to captain Jordan Henderson and kept their cool after Bayern's equaliser through Joel Matip's own goal late in the first half.

Liverpool then scored with headers from Van Dijk in the 69th minute and Mane in the 84th to book their spot in the last eight.

"It is an important (win) for different reasons. Important money-wise but also confidence-wise," Klopp told reporters.

"Liverpool's self-awareness now must be 'we are back. We are back on the landscape. Back in big football'.

"That was part of the plan when we started the project," Klopp said. "We still have space for improvement but beating Bayern here is a big one."

Liverpool, who have slipped behind Manchester City in the Premier League title race in recent weeks, had lost all their away games in the Champions League competition this season prior to Wednesday.

Yet their victory saw them join Manchester City and Manchester United as well as Tottenham Hotspur in the last eight while Germany will be without a quarter-finalist for the first time in 11 years.

"We scored a wonderful goal in the first half, outstanding," Klopp said. "We conceded one, but everyone could see it was possible (for us to win). The second half I was really happy by how mature the performance was, how strong we looked, how good we defended."

"It's a big step for us. We have set a mark that this wonderful club is really at the top of the landscape of European football."

"I am really proud of the boys because it is a massive achievement. We are on a good way and I like what the boys did tonight."

Liverpool showed they are back as one of European football's powerhouses after dispatching Bayern Munich 3-1 in the German champions' back yard on Wednesday, manager Juergen Klopp said. Liverpool, five-times European champions and last season's Champions League runners-up, eased past the Bavarians and into the quarter-finals with two goals from Sadio Mane and one from Virgil van Dijk after a goalless first leg at Anfield. In a dominant performance, Liverpool shrugged off an early ankle injury to captain Jordan Henderson and kept their cool after Bayern's equaliser through Joel Matip's own goal late in the first half. Liverpool then scored with headers from Van Dijk in the 69th minute and Mane in the 84th to book their spot in the last eight. "It is an important (win) for different reasons. Important money-wise but also confidence-wise," Klopp told reporters. "Liverpool's self-awareness now must be 'we are back. We are back on the landscape. Back in big football'. "That was part of the plan when we started the project," Klopp said. "We still have space for improvement but beating Bayern here is a big one." Liverpool, who have slipped behind Manchester City in the Premier League title race in recent weeks, had lost all their away games in the Champions League competition this season prior to Wednesday. Yet their victory saw them join Manchester City and Manchester United as well as Tottenham Hotspur in the last eight while Germany will be without a quarter-finalist for the first time in 11 years. "We scored a wonderful goal in the first half, outstanding," Klopp said. "We conceded one, but everyone could see it was possible (for us to win). The second half I was really happy by how mature the performance was, how strong we looked, how good we defended." "It's a big step for us. We have set a mark that this wonderful club is really at the top of the landscape of European football." "I am really proud of the boys because it is a massive achievement. We are on a good way and I like what the boys did tonight."

Champions League: Liverpool outplay Bayern Munich to reach quarter-finals

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