Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher thinks the Reds must look to build on their eight-point lead at the top as he fears Manchester City will be back to their best in the second half of the season.

The Citizens currently have Aymeric Laporte out with a knee injury until February, and Carragher predicts that Pep Guardiola’s side could well finish the campaign strongly once the Frenchman returns to fitness:

“It is a great position to be in, there’s no doubt, and if you didn’t say that you would be a liar. And what Liverpool have to do is capitalise as much. And not just not think eight points is a great lead; try and make it 10, make it 12, if possible.”

“Especially while City have problems at the back, like having Laporte out. Because there is no doubt that when Laporte is back and City back on their feet, they’re a team capable of doing exactly what Liverpool are doing and going and winning 17, 18 games.”

Leroy Sane is also expected to return from an ACL injury at the same time so there is no doubt that City will be very strong in the closing months of the season if everyone else remains fit.

Carragher is hoping Liverpool capitalise while their main title rivals are at their weakest. They face Manchester United next up at Old Trafford, with the Red Devils going through their own troubles at the moment. Fans will be hoping the Merseyside club capitalise and get the three points on Sunday week.