Liverpool fans may be looking over their shoulders following Manchester City’s away win at St. James’ Park on Saturday afternoon – according to Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand, they should be.

Following their victory over Newcastle United, City moved to within two points of the current Premier League leaders. They aren’t the only ones in hot pursuit – Unai Emery’s Aston Villa are just three points behind the Reds as things stand.

Speaking on TNT Sports‘ punditry panel after the game’s conclusion, Ferdinand said: “Pep Guardiola, very rarely do you see him as animated as he was today. “I’ll tell you one thing, that man there (KDB), you’re back, you are back. You are the jewel in the crown, you’re back. Look at us now, watch momentum kick in now and these guys know what to do.

“These guys know when to put the pedal to the floor and it looks like now everybody is going to be looking over their shoulders and looking around and saying, ‘they are coming’. They know how to get the job done, they have the experience, the depth, the class, the quality and the firepower. Formidable.”

Are Liverpool in danger of losing their top spot to Manchester City?

In recent years, City have become infamous for their impressive runs in the latter halves of Premier League seasons while all those around them being to falter. Much of the same is to be expected this year – as such, Liverpool will need to remain focused and at the top of their game if they are to maintain their position.

With star man Mohamed Salah having departed the club to join Egypt in the Africa Cup of Nations, however, this will be easier said than done. He is Liverpool’s top scorer this season with 14 goals – he has also also racked up eight assists.