Man City handed Premier League title boost that Liverpool couldn’t avoid

Liverpool have lost key players at the start of 2024, like a number of Premier League clubs, but not Manchester City

Liverpool are one of a number of Premier League sides to have been stung by the Africa Cup of Nations and Asian Cup this month.

After defeating Newcastle United on New Years’ Day, the Reds waved off Mohamed Salah and Wataru Endo as they prepare to compete for Egypt and Japan in the respective continental competitions.

“I said if I wish you good luck it would be a lie (laughs)!” Jurgen Klopp joked to reporters on Friday when discussing the absence of the pair. “No, I do obviously (wish them luck), but from a personal point of view I would be overly happy if they go out in the group stages but it is probably not possible.

“It’s fine, they can go and win it as well. So good luck, see you and come back healthy. That’s pretty much the words.”