Ex-Liverpool defender Neil Ruddock believes it will be his former club’s “title to lose” if they do win against Manchester City this weekend.

A victory would put Arne Slot‘s side 11 points ahead of their title rivals and, speaking to 10bet, Ruddock said Sunday’s fixture could have a significant bearing on who lifts the Premier League trophy:

“So, if Liverpool do beat City, then I think it’s Liverpool’s title to lose. Looking at the Premier League in recent years, with City slipping up, Liverpool won’t have a better chance at becoming champions.”

“As we always say, the Christmas period is going to be absolutely crucial – it’s game after game. If Liverpool are eight points clear after Christmas, I think they’ll win the Premier League.”

Arsenal could still rival Liverpool for top spot

Even if Liverpool do beat City this weekend, though, Ruddock still feels that the Reds could have to fend off a challenge from another club.

Arsenal are currently 9 points adrift of Slot’s team and, while Ruddock believes the Gunners are long shots, he thinks they could well put up a better fight than City:

“At the start of the season, Arsenal would have been thinking that if they finish above City, they will win the league, but it hasn’t worked out that way with Liverpool’s form. I don’t think City or Arsenal would have expected a title challenge from Liverpool this season after Klopp left, I don’t think Arsenal would have anticipated Liverpool to be as strong as they are, so I think they’ll be kicking themselves. If Liverpool do beat Man City next week, then it’s going to be between Liverpool and Arsenal.

What do the bookies say about the game between Liverpool and Manchester City?

With City’s winless run now stretching back six games in all competitions, the bookmakers have made Liverpool strong favourites to secure the three points on Sunday. They are being priced between 21/20 and 11/10.

Odds on a draw are between 49/20 and 11/14 while a victory for the away side has been priced at around 9/4.

Find out who is in Liverpool’s first-team squad for 2024/2025 season here