BBC Radio Manchester pundit Michael Brown says he believes Manchester City could still win the title even if they lose to Liverpool this weekend.

Brown, who played for the Cityzens between 1994 and 1999, doesn’t think Jurgen Klopp’s side are playing at the same level as previous seasons, and he also raised questions about the quality of the Reds’ midfield:

“I would still back City if they lost the game [against Liverpool] – no question. They’re going to be right in the mix and surely City will win the league again?”

“In past seasons you’d be worrying because Liverpool are winning all their games, they look powerful and are giving people the runaround regularly. I don’t think they’re at that level this season. I’ve seen them and that midfield still concerns me slightly.”

Saturday’s game will be a massive test for Liverpool

The Reds haven’t won a game at the Etihad for nearly a decade and the fact that this fixture is being played at lunchtime right after an international break won’t help matters either.

However, if Klopp’s men do secure the three points, it would be a big boost for the Merseyside club, no matter what Brown claims.

The Reds still need to show more consistency

Brown is, however, right to question Liverpool’s resilience heading into the match on Saturday. They were seconds away from losing to newly-promoted Luton Town just a few weeks ago. The defeat to Toulouse in the Europa League was also concerning.

Their away form is a problem and, combined with their record at City, the omens don’t look good. Even so, a win would likely put the Reds top of the table, as long as Arsenal don’t seal a big victory over Brentford, sending them above their rivals on goal difference.

Why are Liverpool struggling against newly-promoted teams? Watch the discussion on Shots!TV here