Liverpool face derby test as EPL title race heats up

 English Premier League (EPL) leaders Liverpool will need to maintain their excellent recent record against Everton in Sunday’s Merseyside derby if they are to hold their advantage over second-placed Manchester City.

Liverpool are unbeaten in 18 matches against their neighbours — separated only by a park — since a defeat in October 2018, and the current 33-point gap tells its own story.

Juergen Klopp’s side has laboured and drawn too many games of late, allowing title-holders and second-placed Manchester City to come within one point.

But the Reds were back to their devastating best on Wednesday, crushing Watford 5-0 at Anfield.

“The win gives us more confidence,” said Senegalese striker Sadio Mane who scored twice.

“We know playing against Everton is never easy. But we are a great team and we are used to playing this kind of game.”

Everton ended a run of three defeats with a 3-0 victory at Cardiff City on Tuesday.

But Marco Silva’s side will need the performance of their season to create an upset at Goodison Park.

Liverpool’s single point lead may have vanished by then after Manchester City’s trip to Bournemouth on Saturday.

Belgian midfielder Kevin de Bruyne says it is vital Pep Guardiola’s side do not over-think their workload.

They won the League Cup on Sunday and are still in the FA Cup and UEFA Champions League.

“The schedule is so tough. We are there in every competition and playing well and winning. So, we just need to keep going,” he said.

“If you come here and don’t enjoy the pressure, it’s better to leave.”

Eddie Howe’s Bournemouth are without a win in four games.

The North London derby may not have title implications, after Tottenham’s defeats to Burnley and Chelsea left them nine points off top.

But with fourth-placed Arsenal just four points behind Mauricio Pochettino’s side, there is plenty at stake.

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